Replies

1. 
   RickL | Aug 10, 2005 07:08pm | #1

   Hobby grade tools but not bad.

   Originally  made in Springfield MA. Used to visit the factory when it was in business. Out of business for over 20 years now I believe. There was a place in Springfield that was still supplying parts. http://www.owwm.com has some info on the company.

2. 
   MichaelPB | Aug 10, 2005 08:27pm | #2

   As long as the bearings are in great shape, it is a good deal, if you are up to having bearings changed, it still isn't a bad deal.

   pick it up and then pick up any import jet and see which is heavier.  The old "hobby" machines" are better than some industrial units made today.  The cast iron is better, there is more of it and the only fault of the old machines (the way the belt attaches) is solved by using the new link belts which are better anyway.

   Also, looking at the manual on OWWM, it has an indexed pulley, something few machines have today.  It allows you to lock the workpiece at about 36 positions, so you can do all sorts of operations easily like fluted legs and anything else your imagination comes up with.

   Also, it appears that the rear of the headstock is set up to take a taper so you can hang it off the edge, mount your chuck there and spin whatever diameter you want, something few if any modern lathes allow you to do, certainly not any you can buy for $125.

   I bought a variable speed motor for my old cast iron Craftsman lathe similar to this one  (may even BE this one) and it is a great unit!