Powermatic 90 lathe update (Go USA !)
Previously I posted “tired, old Powermatic 90 lathe question” to elicit feedback if others would pay $450 for a well worn older lathe that needs some parts and some work. I appreciate the responses as they can are helping me to stay rational on what to look for in my next stationary shop tool and the most sensible reason to plunk down a significant amount of cash. Several postings said forget it…he’s asking too much…use your $$ on something new, etc…
I’ve decided to buy THIS lathe…its the best economy for my situation. Here in Dayton Ohio I have checked the classifieds, the woodworking dealers, tent sales @ Shopsmith, auctions and have found a few deals but for complete lathes they want a lot more money or they want the same amount for something incomplete with 3-phase power and no tail-stock.
Thanks for the reassurance from the poster who said bearings, belts and parts are available. I called Powermatic/Jet customer service and they are going to send out reprinted manual and parts list (for free). Its reassuring that real American employees are well familiar with a time tested product and can vouch for the durability and quality that can be expected. I got part numbers and price quotes on every replacement part I inquired about. The prices weren’t cheap but seem fair. I don’t think the same could be said for some kind of Harbor Freight garbage, I don’t care how competetive the price is or how “feature filled” it is.
Thanks for listening. (Bill..a.k.a. Sprocket)
Replies
Hi Bill,
I don't have a lot to offer that hasn't already been said in this group. I've owned more than one powermatic lathes and have always thought they were great pieces of equipment. The last one I bought was an older 45 with a few small problems and several missing parts. For the last three years I have checked ebay almost daily to look for the parts I needed (tool rest, extra banjo, face plates, etc.). I managed to finally get all those parts in good condition for the going price (not any great bargains but cheaper than buying new from Powermatic. So take your time and keep watching you might find the parts you are looking for.
Dennis
Thanks! Just getting the lathe is a pretty big deal. I think I'll do what you say and just be patient, checking e-bay and other sources for misc. parts. One thing I didn't realize is that I thought was a hand-wheel is described as an 8" outboard faceplate. It retails for $128.46 direct from Powermatic. Any idea how you might use this outboard faceplate? Since their is no provision for a tool rest I'm a little mystified on that one.
Bill
The outboard faceplate can be used to turned large diameters, such as a tabletop. Although I've done it, it's pretty scary because of the edge speed. The model 90 has enough weigh to keep it stable but I would bolt it down to do this. It would require you to get an outside toolrest stand. One comes up for sale only every couple of months but they quickly go out of my price range. Now I've done it, you're going to be bidding againist me on ebay. Ha! I also like the outboard faceplate so I can use my hand to help slow the lathe down after turning it off. Good luck on your parts search.
I just noticed this morning that there are several Model 90 faceplates on ebay.
Dennis
Bill Noticed this morning there are 2 auctions for powermatic face plates with 8 hours left if you intrested.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=42938&item=2577020709
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=42938&item=2577018869
Marsh
Thanks for the link Koi.
Both auctions have ended but I'm going to continue checking.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled