Delta 46-715

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That's the same lathe that I use. It is not well reviewed, but it serves my purposes. The price is right for a 14" variable speed lathe, but the reeves drive chatters at high speed. The handwheel wobbles a lot, but most of that is contained by the bearings. Not much escapes out the headstock. Even so, I turn the speed down for final turning to get the best concentricity. The tailstock siezed up once, and I had to disassemble and clean out a bunch of metal shavings (from production or break-in, I don't know). It is nice and smooth now.

I hope that helps,
Eric
 
I have the 46-715. Be aware that the first one's had some problems as Eric pointed out. However, Delta made some revisions in its production and solved the problems. The earlier models are the ones with the not so good reviews. But, the later models get very good reviews. I've been really pleased with mine.
 
Al,

Do you happen to know when Delta made the changes you're referring to? My lathe is only a few years old - and that model line was around for a while before I bought. If Delta has improved the drive, I might see if an upgrade is available.

Thanks,
Eric
 
Okay ... I found my notes on the research I conducted before purchasing my Delta 46-715. The early problems with the 46-715 were corrected by Delta. You can tell if you're getting the corrected version by looking at the serial (model number on the lathe) and see if it ends in "T2".

Before buying my lathe I called Delta and talked with a rep. He told me that Delta was manufacturing only the corrected model and to look for the "T2". Some dealers may still have the first version of the 46-715 so be careful which one you actually take delivery of.

Hey Eric, just out of curiosity ... take a look at the numbers on your lathe. Does it end in "T2"? If not, I would call Delta and ask to have it replaced.
 
Where is the serial number located? I am going to look at a used one tomorrow. The guy is asking $350. From the pictures it looks fairly new, but you never know.
 
Be careful, the owner may be getting rid of the lathe due to the problems with the first run.

Serial numbers are usually on a plaque with the model number.
 
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