New Jet minilathes

in

page > 13 I don't know how far you want to go with this but I've developped a system to help me decide these things. The first thing I do is ask where the product is made. Off shore often means lesser quality. Then, get hold of the company and ask them what the average turn around time is in getting parts. Choose something like a lock handle for the tail stock as well as a simple belt for example. Don't forget to ask the price.

I base my system on personal experience. My old Sears lathe, state of the art, variable speed, replacement main drive belt, 4 inches long,

3/4 inch wide, 3 month waiting period, $56 CDN, only available from Sears in Taiwan or Korea. On my Delta Midi-lathe, replacement belt, 3 day service, $3 CDN or so but a locking handle for the tail-stock $12, 3 week wait. If you re-drill the tail stock to accept a normal, available anywhere 5/16" handle, $2 or $3.

Mike Courteau snipped-for-privacy@toymakersite.com