New HF Lathe

[Band Saw Box]

My HF Lathe arrived today, this time there was no damaged to the box and none to the lathe. I set it up and checked to see if the head and tailstock were in alignment and they were perfect. I wasn't sure I would like using the hex wrench to loosen and tighten the motor when adjusting the belts. It runs very smooth and is a joy to turn on. I have it setup in our back room so I can turn in the coming colder months.

 

[mbroberg]

I have it setup in our back room so I can turn in the coming colder months.

Your wife must be VERY understanding!!!

 

[cal91666]

Lucky man!! I wouldn't dream of even mentioning turning in the house.

:beer:

 

[Band Saw Box]

As long as I clean up after myself I'll have no problems and I dont plan on turning anything but pens or maybe a stopper.

 

[Leviblue]

You can change the bolt out for a handle like the Jet for loosening the motor mount. WC sells them as well as the big box stores in the specialty hardware section. Just a thought.

 

[Band Saw Box]

That's a good idea Kevin, do you know what they are called.

 

[monophoto]

As long as I clean up after myself I'll have no problems and I dont plan on turning anything but pens or maybe a stopper.

Check back with us in a year.

 

[Leviblue]

Its listed as an adjustable handle. Confirm your thread and bolt size though. Here's a link to one I found.
Buy Adjustable Handle with 5 16 - 18 Stud at Woodcraft

 

[Band Saw Box]

I just checked the bolt in reference to the motor, it's just a 1/4" away. I'm wondering if that kind of handle will work. If the way it is now is fine.

 

[SunPeet]

Congrats!!

Nice machine! I was just looking at this one at HF and a few other used ones on Craigslist. I'm still looking and have not found one yet.

 

[Leviblue]

Here's the upgraded handle version. Plenty to chose from. Nylon Adjustable Handle with Orange Push Button, Threaded Stud: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

I may have to upgrade a few handles myself with these.

 

[fastgast]

Congrats, Turn several thousand pens on a lathe like yours, no problems and still running like new...

 

[sbwertz]

That is HF version of the Excelsior lathe sold at Woodcraft. I have had one for four years, and still use it more than my big variable speed. It will serve you well. And, yes, the handle will fit. It is a lever type handle and replaces the bolt.

 

[bobjackson]

I have that very lathe I use exclusively for polymer clap blanks. Works great.

 

[bobjackson]

I have that same lathe I use exclusively for polymer clay blanks. Works great.

 

[marter1229]

you will enjoy the lathe. They are addictive.

 

[Band Saw Box]

I know I'm not addicted, I can stop any time I want, I just dont want to and please, please do make me.

 

[Ambidex]

I know I'm not addicted, I can stop any time I want, I just dont want to and please, please do make me.

bahahahahahaha...that's the first step in a 2.3 billion step program to recovery:biggrin::biggrin:

 

[plano_harry]

Oh no Dan...now you are going to have to buy a dust control system! Congrats on the new tool.

Harry

 

[Animyzo]

I have the HF 10 speed w/ reversible head.
Love it. Dead on and has no problems turning some larger pieces. My only wish is that I would have bought that one first. I got the little variable speed, but it crapped out after 3 pens and a small gavel.

 

[Band Saw Box]

Dust control system? I know the grandkids with a broom and dust pan.

 

[LagniappeRob]

I wasn't sure I would like using the hex wrench to loosen and tighten the motor when adjusting the belts.

I simply replaced it with one of these: Grizzly.com

You might check that it's still the same size, but I doubt it changed...