Lathe Power - 46-460 vs 1220VS

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Fibonacci

Fibonacci

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Feb 9, 2011
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Ridgecrest, CA
I have been dreaming about upgrading from my cheap rockler lathe to a Delta 46-460 or a Jet 1220VS. The biggest difference seems to be that the Delta has a 1hp motor and the Jet has a 3/4hp.

For those that have either one, how do you feel about the extra power of the Delta? Is it worth the extra $60-ish?
 
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I've also been thinking about this issue.

The problem that I've encountered is that inexpensive variable speed lathes use a variable voltage DC motor. With that design, torque is proportional to the voltage applied to the motor - which means that torque is significantly reduced at low speeds. And if the motor horsepower is lower, then the torque is further reduced. And low speed torque is a serious issue if you are drilling. My current lathe has a 1/3 HP motor, and it is nearly impossible to drill using a forstner bit - at the bottom of the speed range, there isn't enough torque to actually cut, especially in end-grain. The only way to overcome that is to increase the speed, which then increases friction and leads to burning.

So my inclination would be to opt for the larger motor.
 
I have the Delta,and what did it for me was the slick belt changing on it.I've never stalled it out.


Steve
 
$60 is a small price to pay for the extra HP. I have used this Delta and it was very smooth. Don't know about the Jet.

Lin.
 
I own the Jet 1014VS and I have been pleased with it except for the speed control circuit board failing. While replacing the board I installed a reversing switch which works very well but If I had to replace the jet I would go with the DELTA.

I've had the opportunity to try the DELTA 46-460 several times at various retailers and several friends that have them and I was very impressed. The Ways are machined very well and the tailstock to head stock alignment is dead on with no play from side to side for the tailstock on the ways. The DELTA is very quiet and smooth.
 
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Our club has the delta and it is great, I've worked with a Jet 1220 and it's a nice lathe, but not in the same class as the delta, $60.00 well spent!!
 
just heard delta is not going to make this lathe anymore or any of there currant power tools they will be makeing small bench top tools for box stores only. there has been a big proplem getting parts over the year this will not get better. delta has of problems its to bad this has been a great lathe just keep in mind if you by one your not likly to find parts or suport in the near future.
 
Steve, where did you hear that information about Delta?

While I know they underwent some changes with the parts division being reorganized and handled by a different outfit, I think it has led to confusion as to WHO provides the replacement parts.
About a year ago we needed parts for our Unisaw and had difficulty (partly finding the right contact) and was told it would take six weeks. It did take a few weeks, but it was closer to three a than six.

Of course things can change. I just need to know the source before I start to worry about it. :smile:
 
Hard to name a brand of mini or full size lathes not made in China today. Reality is both Delta & Jet lathes made in China today and number of units to a shipping container still more important than spare parts.

So brand name lathe seller with best customer service, fastest part replacement for items not available in aftermarket more important than lathe motor horsepower. If comb message boards can figure out what models and brands have no or very slow replacement part support.

Not sure who owns Delta today, would not surprised me decision made not to import any more mini lathes. All about return on investment! Will another company step in and change paint and begin selling those mini lathes?
 
Aside from the implications of the country of manufacturing and how that impacts other countries economy's, just because the item is manufactured in China doesn't make it poorly built. It has more to do with the individual companies quality control and standards that they have in in place at the point of manufacture. It's a mater of tolerances and what one company accepts over another.
 
Fact remains depending upon what you break or comes to you broken may be awhile for a replacement.

Many years ago bought a Jet mini on sale for $199.00 after several years of service sold it for $125.00. Never had a problem with it. Suspect many folks buying different brand mini lathes will have same experience.
 
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I have been told by several places that some of the delta units have serious vibration issues due to the front loading door and the lack of metal on the head. They also sell both the jet and the delta and said the jet is a better product. I was considering the delta for the reverse speed and bit stronger motor but opted for the jet instead. Even tho I have had some quality problems with some of the jet parts those were covered under warranty.
 
For my next lathe I am seriously considering building my own. I have learned that no matter who makes the lathe I am unlikely to be 100% pleased with it. Without having to spend $10,000+ on it that is.

Dale's Woodturnings I came across this and right now I am seriously looking at doing a project like this.
 
edstreet said:
For my next lathe I am seriously considering building my own. I have learned that no matter who makes the lathe I am unlikely to be 100% pleased with it. Without having to spend $10,000+ on it that is.

Dale's Woodturnings I came across this and right now I am seriously looking at doing a project like this.
Click to expand...

I have a 1 hp motor and a spindle with a 1-8 thread on it that I have been saving for some similar project as well. My problem is decking the ways such that I can get good alignment on the tailstock. I like to do more than just make bowls, so I can't really get away with the short ways and the close alignment.

I have a cnc mill that I can make small things on, but it only has 6" of travel
 
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