Lathe Questions

[Gun Smith]

Another option for a stready rest is this. http://www.statecollegecentral.com/metallathe/MLA-9.html . You’re right about M300 steady rests being made of unobtanium. I’ve been looking for two years now and the only ones I’ve seen are priced like they’re made of gold !

That fellow (Andy? if I recall) makes nice stuff. I built one of his http://www.statecollegecentral.com/metallathe/S-4382.html cross slides with the T- Slots years ago for my South Bend. Very nice item for attaching a back toolpost or milling if desired.

 

[butchlambert]

Yes

They have a couple guys that know what's happening, but!

 

[B Nettesheim]

If you want a lathe that comes with support they first need to still be in business, when I rebuilt my Monarch a phone call to them provided me with the correct manual and even the history of the machine. Throughout the project they had every part I needed and in my opinion they are on top of the list as far as support goes.
I just bought a Clausing and there are a few people around with parts and it seems like support for that machine will be there just by a second party.
I also have an Acer lathe and they have all their manuals online as well as a place to buy parts for them. I have no experience with buying parts or their support but it does exist.

 

[butchlambert]

If you want a lathe that comes with support they first need to still be in business, when I rebuilt my Monarch a phone call to them provided me with the correct manual and even the history of the machine. Throughout the project they had every part I needed and in my opinion they are on top of the list as far as support goes.
I just bought a Clausing and there are a few people around with parts and it seems like support for that machine will be there just by a second party.
I also have an Acer lathe and they have all their manuals online as well as a place to buy parts for them. I have no experience with buying parts or their support but it does exist.

Monarch parts are available, but very expensive. Never had a problem acquiring parts for my Clausing.