My newest addition to my shop

[Marker]

Here is my newest addition to my pen turning shop. This old south bend lathe was made in 1934. They sure made them a lot better back then. I have the gear cover off.

It runs good, although I still need to do some adjusting on the thing that tightens the belt...I also may need to get a new belt.


I want to clean this up some more...Whats the best way to clean cast iron?

 

[Edgar]

That's one beautiful lathe - congratulations!

 

[edstreet]

Well there are many ways but the best way is DON'T. This lathe has spent the last 80 years building up a patina and barrier with the help of japaning. Oil it oil it and oil it. Treat it with the respect she deserves and she will become an heirloom for a good 300+ years.

Oh P.S. they did make them better back then, not like that POS crap you get today.

 

[Rollingrock]

That is a nice machine, you will enjoy it.

I agree with Ed
If my 1940 9A looked like that, I would have oiled it up and
turned it on. - However it didn't.
I can't tell by the photos if you have a turnbuckle to adjust your
belt or not.
I went with the automotive serpentine type belt on mine, of course this means removing the spindle and countershaft. If that is necessary replace the wicks while your at it.
I see you have a 4 jaw chuck on it also.

 

[Penultimate]

Very nice, I learned on that lathe. From your photos it appears you can't have too many lathes.

 

[Pompeyite]

Hi Mark, it looks as though you will soon be making some striking pens on that beaut.
If you don't like it, you could always send it over the pond to me matey. He he.