After almost 4 years of daily use (at least 5 days a week) , the motor on my
200.00 Harbor Freight lathe quit on me. I'd have to say I got my $ worth out of it. Went to their page yesterday and saw a newer version of the same lathe for 499.00. Much heavier cast iron legs, indexing spindle with lock, digital spindle speed readout, lever speed change, 14" swing x 43" bed, Headstock rotates and locks in position at 60°, 90°, 120°, and 180° , 10 speeds, from 670 to 2900 RPM and Forward/reverse allows for outboard bowl turning. I know some don't like the Chinese made lathes, but the last one was such a great value, I had to get this one to replace it. I may replace the motor on the old one in the future, just to have a 2nd lathe. Nice bonus is that all of my chucks and stuff will fit the new lathe perfectly. no replacement costs. With shipping to Alabama, the total outlay was $606.98. In ten days I'll be able to stop "jonesing" for spinning wood and flying sawdust! lolBob Crawford