Oh yes I do know what he is going thru. I too have that same model for about 2 yrs. now. and until recently I've had to make my on adapters to use it. Well, in my case I really wnated to turn and didn't see me having $1,000 or less to spend on anything decent. I saw the add in a harbor freight flyer and went for it. $84.95, I thought why not. Now of recently PSI has come up with adapters to use because they knew people were going to buy these and would need adapters to run them. Since then I have gotten the spindle adapter, and pen mandrel adapter, and a PSI utility chuck all for a 1"x8TPI since this seems to be the common size. since I have gotten these adapters, I have been enjoying the lathe more and have turned very nice things with it. But when I do get the chance, I'll be upgrading to the Nova 1624-44. and the HF lathe will become a buffing wheel. Hope he can deal with it for a little longer til he too can upgrade. I would suggest making a stand and or put on a heavy bench. The lathe itself is fairly light and needs to be weighted to keep from wobbling with larger turnings. but for small projects like pens, ornamnets, bottle stoppers, for me has done nicely. My only regret was not knowing its problems, but have adapted to work with it instead of getting made. I know its a cheap lathe, but for some its what can be obtained onlimited $$.
Hope all goes well. PSI has all the adapters he'll need to make it a go.
Later,
Gothyc Designs