Found a good deal on powermatic lathe

I wouldn't pay that for that lathe

Dick Coers

Hate the gap bed, reeves drive, and small diameter capacity.

Re: I wouldn't pay that for that lathe

john lucas

Gap bed isn't as big a problem as they used to be. Most of us are using chucks now and that moves the work out to where the gap bed isn't as bad. I used to hate them also but I've had to demo on one similar to this several times and it isn't bad. The Reeves drive is a pain if you forget to slow it down before you stop. It always starts at whatever speed you leave it at.

Re: Found a good deal on powermatic lathe

Lyle Jamieson

That lathe was made in the 1970's, has been painted. Maybe the existing owner never used it but it is likely very used. I think the price is the going rate for these. But I would never get it, the obstacles and limitations will drive you crazy. Pay for a good lathe, you are worth it.

buy a 12" midi new lathe

john lucas

For that kind of money you can get a 12" midi lathe that will let you turn the same things that will except for long spindles. You will have a better variable speed on the new lathe and it will take all of the modern accessories. There is a good possibility that that lathe has 1 1/2" spindle and 1 1/8" tool post. Neither one are standard today.

Re: buy a 12" midi new lathe

Lyle Jamieson

It does not say if it is a PM 45 or 90. But both will have compatibility problems with standard accessories. They were all 3 phase too. How was it converted?? Sooooo many issues with an old lathe like that.

Re: Found a good deal on powermatic lathe

Roy Girolami

That's a PM90 and it does have a 1 1/2" spindle and 1 1/8" diameter tool posts. Those are very good spindle lathes but the swing is limiting. i liked how the pictures showed they painted it on the trailer.

Roy

Maybe they took it to Earl Scheib ?

Dick Coers

Any color lathe for $29.95!