Midi vs full size.

[Tim_N]

I have just about had enough trying to work out whats going on with the MC900 and its stupid wobble. The recent service has done nothing to fix it.
I am considering biting the bullet and getting myself a new lathe. I havent got a lot to spare, prob no more than $1000 and thats not going to go down well with the boss. I am tossing up the options for possibly another MC900 or even considering a Jet 1220 midi variable speed ... I am not concerned about the over bed swing, 30cm is more than I think I will need for a long time. I am mainly doing small bowls, hoping to develop skill for lidded boxes etc, and pens / other small kits. Are there other possible lathes within the range which will suit ? I realise the Jet Midi will need a bench to sit on so there will be more expense there either buying or building a bench but I am leaning that way. Also I think there is a newer version of the 1220 - the 1221 ... so do I wait ... anywhere else I should consider looking ?

[Tangoman]

G'day Mate,

i suggest you you look at the lathes that Gary Pye sells - GPW: Dayacom Pen Parts & Accessories + Woodwork Machinery + Woodturning Supplies (http://www.garypye.com)

I have a mini and a 25-30, both of which are great lathes and exceptional value. I live just past tweed heads, you're welcome to pop down and have alook.

Regards,
Cam

[chuck1]

There has been some second hand ones around nsw that are woodfast and teknatool(nova) that would be in your price range?!

[Colin62]

Chatting with the guys in the local woodworkers guild, the new Jet 1221 variable speed is much better than the 1220. The 1220 had a reputation of being a bit weak with the electronic speed control, and the 1221 is much better. Also the bed has a lot more metal, with much wider surfaces, which can only lead to a more rigid and stable lathe.

The manual adjusted 1220 was a nice lathe, but the new 1221 is really a lot better, and it's only apparent when you've seen the two side by side. And the new electronic speed control is in a different league to the older one. It's a very capable lathe for its size.

I'm not familiar with the other options you have in Aus, but certainly feel confident pushing the 1221 ahead of the 1220.

[hughie]

I have just about had enough trying to work out whats going on with the MC900 and its stupid wobble. The recent service has done nothing to fix it.
I am considering biting the bullet and getting myself a new lathe. I havent got a lot to spare, prob no more than $1000 and thats not going to go down well with the boss. I am tossing up the options for possibly another MC900 or even considering a Jet 1220 midi variable speed ... I am not concerned about the over bed swing, 30cm is more than I think I will need for a long time. I am mainly doing small bowls, hoping to develop skill for lidded boxes etc, and pens / other small kits. Are there other possible lathes within the range which will suit ? I realise the Jet Midi will need a bench to sit on so there will be more expense there either buying or building a bench but I am leaning that way. Also I think there is a newer version of the 1220 - the 1221 ... so do I wait ... anywhere else I should consider looking ?


Throw away your current stand and build another one.If you have a swivel head that slides up and down the bed, lock it in one position with long grub screws and replace the nut underneath the swivel set up with a nylock nut. Then you should have a stable lathe I did this with mine and I could balance a dollar coin on edge when it was running on the headstock.

http://www.woodworkforums.com/31145-mc1100-900-head-stock-wobbles/

[issatree]

Tim, bite that Bullet really hard, & buy a Vicmarc VL150. Yes, it is most likely out of your range, but you will never want another one ever again, unless of course, you want to go big. Get your paper work together & show your good Lady the Pro's & Con's of the difference, between a holden & a Roller. Just my 2sense.

[Tim_N]

G'day Mate,

i suggest you you look at the lathes that Gary Pye sells - GPW: Dayacom Pen Parts & Accessories + Woodwork Machinery + Woodturning Supplies (http://www.garypye.com)

I have a mini and a 25-30, both of which are great lathes and exceptional value. I live just past tweed heads, you're welcome to pop down and have alook.

Regards,
Cam

I have been checking the website and quite like the look of the 25-30 ! It's almost 2x the cost of where I was intending but looks a very good unit.
I may eventually take you up on the offer of coming and taking a look Cam. I am away most of August so no rush !


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