Hafco AL-336 Metal Lathe Cutting Imp Threads

[brisbanefitter]

check out everyone, analyse specs, check out again, analyse again, ask to see machine run probably not turn anything on it but maybe see it run at least. Ask for dealers to give you references to other people that own them as well, ring these people, perhaps even go look at their machine if you can.
Thats how to be really really sure.
If not, find something you like on paper and looks good static display from a reputable dealer where after sales service shouldnt be a problem.

If you can fit taiwanese into your budget, thats what I would go for personally, better componentry and better fit/finish on the machines, more industrial orientated equipment. failing that, there is always dean and grace, colchester, tos etc etc but man you wanna have a healthy budget for those.
but, that said the chinese are getting better at what they do

[jatt]

Am currently going thru the same deal at the moment. As in looking at the AL-336 and equivalents.

Try having a look at www.madmodder.net . There are a few blokes on there who have the equivalent lathe and have been very helpful with me.

[Retromilling]

HI ALL,
I went to Hare and Forbes Late Monday Arvo with my Boss. I spoke to a Salesman about Cutting Imperial Threads on the AL-336. Basically He said it does'nt matter whether it is a $2000.00 or a $20,000.00 Machine. You leave the Half Nuts engaged all the time and reverse the Machine. This is what a lot of You Guys had already said.
As for their Lathes, Yes I had a good look at them. I was quite suprised at the solidness of the AL-320G a nice Machine. I had a good look and play with the AL-335 better than the AL-320G obviously. The AL-960B really good, very smooth in the Hand Wheels and well made. I looked at the AL-340A Really Nice Hey mathew_g do You or does anyone else have this Machine? and what do You think of it. Unfortunately there was No AL-336 in stock at all they even checked out Back for Me.
Their Metal Lathes have certainly improved over the Years. I remember looking at the Lathes about 6 Years ago at Hare and Forbes in Clayton. They are noticably better built and finished, I also remember the Hand Wheels being really Stiff on them.
One thing I noticed in the Catalogue about the AL-335, AL-336 is that they have got a lot less (40mm) Cross Slide Travel than the AL-960B.
I need to have a good think and study of the Lathes now. I was'nt going to Spend any More Money than the AL-336, but I am now thinking of the AL-960B and also the AL-340A. Oh well I had better start saving some more Dollars.
All the Best steran50 Stewart

Yes but you don't just wack a 240 Volt motor into reverse. You hit the footbrake first.
The lathe stops , you then engauge the other direction . Only 3 phase motors are instantly reversible.