Are there any owner operators of The Powermatic 3520 A who have recommendations or opinions concerning this lathe. I am thinking about upgrading from a beginner lathe. The price range appears to be reasonable and Southern Tools is having a special sale on this lathe with free shipping. Thank you in advance of any information you may have to share about this lathe
-- Harry
You will never regret it. I upgraded from a jet 1236 and never looked back. Some of the best money that you've ever spent
moyo
Great lathe. About the only thing I'd do differently is get the remote control panel (when I got mine, it was an option - it may be standard now). Other than that, no complaints. I've turned things as small as chessmen, and as big as a 4' long hunk of solid maple that was about 15" diameter. I needed a coupel of guys to help me get it intot he lathe, but after that it was fine....
--JD
You have a great idea that has been used before you. I upgraded from a jet 1236 to a 3520 as well. I would also look at Osolnik Machinery for their value package on the 3520. I could well be worth the few extra bucks for the options that you get. osolnikmachinery.com
Good luck with the new beast if you get it, you will not regret it and you should have a good supply of wood handy cause it will increase your need to turn.
MP Wall
I have a 3520. I've had it about a year. I love it. The only problem I had was a stuck drive spur. Others have had the same problem. Just put a pipe wrench on it and give it a twist with the spindle lock on and it come out. Also, others have mentioned (and I had the same problem) to tighten the set screws on the arbor which hold the pulleys and spindle lock. They have a tendency to not be tight enough from the factory. As far as money goes, Get your best price and then call Toolnut (1-877-934-8665) and talk to Bob Ackerman. He will beat ANY price. You will love the PM 3520. It is a great lathe.
RP
I've had my 3520 since June of this year and use it almost every day. Great machine. One problem I've had is that the spindle locking collar broke in three pieces as I was removing a bowl from my chuck. I called PM and they had a guy come out and put a new one on (no charge). The original was cast, the new one is steel. The spindle hade to be removed from the headstock which is a bit tricky. I watched carefully and realized I will have to do the same when I have to replace the belt some day. Bottom line..great machine and no complaints with powermatic service. Ed Mackey (Charlotte,NC)
I got my 3520A back in March and finally got Powermatic to send me a correct spindle after two months. I have 4 spindles with various defects plus the final one which works. I am impressed that they sent someone out to fix your problem, since they apparently assumed I was able to do the work myself. The lathe itself is great, and works as well as I could have hoped. After my experience with the company, I can assure you it will be my last Powermatic purchase.
Roy Girolami Apex, NC
Consider a link belt for the replacement - no need to remove the spindle. Billh
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