jet lathes

[sgimbel]

If I get a Jet lathe that is not variable speed how hard is it to change speeds on the other ones?

 

[snowman56]

Not hard takes about a min.

 

[thewishman]

Very simple and easy - takes about 20 seconds to make a change.

 

[2cor520]

ditto wishman. Simple and easy, I love mine.

 

[low_48]

It does only take half a minute, but that's too long when I'm putting on a CA finish, plastic polish etc. Except for a bearing change once in a while in the head stock, these things will last a LONG time. I might even expect it to last 20 years. Spend the extra bucks for the variable speed. I wouldn't be without it.

 

[Jim15]

I have had both and I personally like the VS a lot more.

 

[Mr Vic]

Even with the VS you need to move the belt. You have three pulley positions for three speed ranges: 500-1200, 1100-2600, 1700-3900. I typically leave mine in the mid range unless drilling. Don't think I have ever used the high range.

 

[Fred]

I have had my VS JET 1620 and have never changed the belt. My speeds range from 138 up to 3200. I personally would always use a VS lathe in my shop for all my needs. I just can't live without the instant versitility by simply turning the speed control knob!

 

[Rifleman1776]

They are all variable speed. Just have different methods.
Non-EVS lathes have been around a long time and work just fine.
EVS is handy but not necessary.
Get what your budget allows and enjoy.