Thread: Need Info On Using A Lathe

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A lathe is a very useful tool,generally speaking though you don't usually need a very large one.From the sound of it this is huge.Fortunately machining was once my trade so I use the one at work a lot for my rod projects.I find that between a lathe and a Mill I can pretty much make most things for my truck.Depending on your interest level I would advise a course at a community college as they can also be quite dangerous for those unaccustomed to using one.If I was able to get a cheap or free one I personally would probably take it depending on its size though.

Our old Service Manager told me one time this is not the kind of lathe you turn on and walk away from. He said if the piece ever came loose it would go through the concrete block wall next to it. The power is 220V single phase,and it is about 7 or 8 feet long.

Another concern I have is that someone posted on here one time about a guy they knew who died because his clothing got caught in a lathe and it snapped his neck. My kid would be using this too, and I'm not sure I want to expose him to more danger than he faces with all the other tools he uses at the shop.

It is so tempting though, because of the possibilities with one of this quality. And,,,,,,,,,,,,IT"S FREE.

Don