I have a Grizzly G1245, the heavy duty wood lathe. It was given to me so I don't want to go out and buy a good lathe so am trying to fix all the problems with this one. I've fixed most things but one: the motor mounting plate is junk. This lathe has the variable speed control with the expanding and contracting pulleys. When you change speeds you can actually watch the plate flex and give, actually tilting the motor at some speeds. When the motor tilts it complains, sending out some awful noises. Also the plate bolts directly to the frame so while it doesn't produce much vibration at the head, it does make the sheet metal base vibrate and produce strange and annoying noises. A heavier metal plate would fix the flexing but not the vibration. I'm thinking of making a plate out of 1" plywood, laying rubber motor mounts on top of that, and the motor on top of those. No way would a 6" x 6" piece of plywood flex (I think). It also seems it would really cut down on the vibration. How about it? What do you think? Any suggestions for another material for the plate?
Please answer but I won't be able to reply for a few days as we are leaving for Christmas. I will be checking my e-mail in 2 or 3 days.
Earl