Buying a Used Jet JWL-1442VS Wood Lathe

by George Merrill, M&M Tool Parts

Let’s face it, woodworking machinery is expensive. That’s exactly why I consider buying used woodworking equipment over new whenever possible. If a person is careful about the used wood working tools they purchase, they can acquire jewels for their shop that will serve them for many years to come. As such if you are considering a Jet lathe you are well on your way to equipping your shop with the best.

For those of you who are looking for an all around useful lathe for a broad range of projects, you don’t have to look much further than the Jet JWL-1442VS wood lathe. Whether you are turning pens or legs for a dining table, this wood working lathe can handle the job. And with its heavy duty cast iron construction, it’s built to stand the test of time.

Here are some general specifications for the JWL-1442 wood lathe:

• Motor: 1hp, 1ph
• Variable Speed
• RPM: 450 to 3000
• 14-inch Swing on the Head
• Bed Length: 42”, Working Length: Roughly 38”
• Quill travel: 4”
• Headstock Swivel for Full or Partial Outboard Projects
• Cast Iron Construction (including its legs)
• Weight: 355-lbs

So let's dig into the nitty gritty of this lathe, and what you need to know to assess whether it’s a lemon or a peach. Keep in mind the ultimate value of any used wood working machine is going to be contingent upon the state of repair its owner kept it in. The better the original owner maintained the machine, the better it will perform for you.

Let’s assume most woodworkers are going to be honest with you. When you are interested in a used piece of machinery, such as a lathe, you should get a verbal rundown (over phone or email) prior to expending any travel time.

Questions you should ask over the phone:

• Did you buy your lathe new? If not, who owned it before you?
• How many years have you had it?
• In general, how has it run for you?
• What kind of repairs have you made?
• What problems or hangups does it have now?
• How much have you used it and what kind of work have you used it for? Getting an idea of how much it’s been used, and what kind of projects the owner does, can give you insight into the kind of miles this lathe has driven. For example, it’s helpful to know if the machine has to-church-on-Sunday miles or rocky-mountain-goat-trail miles. This will give you a good indication of what immediate repairs, if any, are required.

Let's assume again that your phone call goes well, the next step is to jump into your truck and visit that lathe in person. Below is a point-by-point checklist I suggest you follow. You’ll notice that I have included SKU numbers for Jet lathe parts if you find repairs are needed after you purchase your new used lathe.

General Questions While Inspecting the Used Lathe

• Is there any rust on the bed, or is it clean?This will give you quick insight into how the owner has maintained his lathe. Assuming no rust pitting has occurred, beds can usually be cleaned up quite nicely, either way.
• Is the power cord frayed, cracked or cut?
• Does it sit level or does it jostle when you rock it?An adjustable foot might either be damaged or simply not adjusted properly.

• Does the quill on the tailstock travel smooth or are there any hangups?The lead screw of the tailstock quill could be gummed up or, worse yet, worn out from poor upkeep.
• Is the Live Center missing or damaged?
• Does the tailstock anchor down tightly?Be aware of the threads on the tailstock bolt. They may be damaged or, more than likely, the hex nut on the tailstock bolt just needs to be tightened. Simply remove the stud, loosen the tailstock handle and slide out the tailstock.

• When loosened, does the tailstock slide smoothly? If not, it could possibly be a simple fix. Try removing the tailstock and cleaning up the underside.

Headstock Questions

• Are the spindle threads on the headstock dirty or damaged?
• Does the spur center seat properly?

• When you turn the handwheel, does it rotate smoothly and freely?If not, it could possibly mean the spindle bearings are worn out. This could also mean it is hanging-up somewhere else such as the pulleys or motor. There are two sets of bearings on the spindle. One bearing is obsolete. If you need this obsolete part, call www.mmToolParts.com, and they’ll be able to get one for you.
• Do you still have the 6” face plate?It is common for this piece to be missing.
• Does the headstock tightening lever function properly?
• Does the headstock swivel out properly?Be careful to notice how smoothly it rotates out. If it is catchy that is also a sign of poor upkeep.
• When the headstock swivels out, do the 6 indexing positions lock firmly?There are several parts that could be damaged thus rendering the indexing function inoperable.
• Does the spindle lock still function properly?

Points To CheckWhen The Lathe Is Turned On

• Does the on/off switch function properly?This switch has one of those yellow safety tags, when the tag is removed the switch is not able to be flipped on.
• When turned on, do you hear buzzing sounds or grinding noises?Also be aware of any electrical burning smells. This could be indicative of motor problems. Needless to say, if you have motor problems make sure the price you pay includes the possibility of having to buy a new motor. If the owner tries to downplay clearly perceivable motor problems and won’t adjust the price accordingly, it’s probably a good idea to leave that lathe in its own dust.
• Does the variable speed work properly?Keep in mind, the lever can only move when the lathe is turned on. If the variable speed isn’t functioning properly, the cause is probably somehow associated with the spindle pulley assembly. It could be as simple as needing a new belt, to something more complex, like needing a new motor pulley or spindle pulley. This unique pulley system is something featured within just a few lathes. As you turn the lever the pulleys expand or contract, in doing so this alters the speed by which the spindle will rotate. The motor stays relatively at the same rpm. Overall this is a reliable system. I know several owners that greatly enjoy the control they have with this variable speed system. With that being said, exchanging pulleys on this lathe can be a bit of a project. Only those with strong mechanical dispositions should attempt this on their own.

Parts List

1. Adjustable Foot – JWL1642-206
2. Belt – JWL1442-141
3. Ball Bearing – BB-6304LLB
4. Face Plate – JWL1442-102
5. Index Bracket – JWL1442-130
6. Index Bushing – JWL1442-176
7. Index Knob – JWL1442-173
8. Index Pin – JWL1442-169
9. Index Shaft – JWL1442-174
10. Lead Screw – JWL1442-214
11. Lever – JWL1442-125
12. Live Center – JWL1442-216
13. Motor – JWL1442-135
14. Motor Pulley – JWL1442-159
15. Power Cord – JWL1442-133
16. Spindle – JWL1442-103
17. Spindle Bearing – BB-6205ZZ
18. Spindle Lock Pin – JWL1442-122
19. Spindle Pulley – JWL1442-161
20. Spur Center – JWL1442-101
21. Switch – JWL1442-118
22. Swivel Bolt – JWL1442-128A
23. Tailstock Bolt – JWL1442-128
24. Tailstock Rod – JWL1442-217

So there you have it! This breakdown should equip you with the knowledge you need to find a quality used JWL-1442SV wood lathe, and ensure you’re getting exactly what you need at a fair price. Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions about your lathe purchase; we have professional lathe techs in-house to help you make the right decisions about your used purchase. If you are looking for a location that will have Jet lathe parts for sale for your JWL-1442vs, please visit us at mmToolStore.com