delta lathes

[richburrow]

Have any of you guys got any experience of delta lathes?

I don't know the model number, just that it is on a stand and has vari speed.

 

[Turn It In]

Hi Rich,
Does the head look like this one of mine:-

I have been using this Delta lathe for 2 1/2 years so far and apart from the cone pulleys rattling a little it has performed without fail.
It has limitations like some side play on the tailstock which has to be allowed for and the head swivels on a ring with notches in to allow for large diameter bowl turning. The head is clamped in place with a cross bolt with clamps on front and back. The tension is all that holds the head down so if you put too much force on with the tailstock you can actually for the head to tilt up slightly.
All this said I still like the lathe as it is versatile with having easily varied speed but note that if you want to run it at top speed you must slow it down to at least half before stopping the motor as it will not start at full speed from rest and you cannot adjust the speed control while not running.
I have seen them badged with various makes but cannot comment wether or not the build quality varies. The Delta is made for the American market and are always good quality pieces of equipment.
Hope that lot helps you and if you want more info please do not hesitate to ask.
Best regards,
Ian

 

[richburrow]

Thanks Ian for the info.
I think that is the one, not seen it yet. I am going to have a look tomorrow morning. The guy is asking 100, if it is in good nick is that a good price?

 

[CHJ]

If it is the basic machine without chucks etc, I think it a bit high in the current climate. A lot depends on the amount of work it's done. If you can try it try boring a bit of end grain with a gouge see if you get chatter to make sure the bearings are sound.

Not expensive to replace but still a price factor.

Basically the same as the perform lathe I and many others started with and still marketed by Axminster under the 900 banner for just over £200

You may find it a bit lacking in general build quality compared with your main machine and even the coronet.

 

[Turn It In]

Hi Rich,
Yes if it is in good order, I believe that Sip charge£175 and others vary around that sort of price. By the way check that there is an eextensionbar to go into the banjo so that you can make the tool rest reach far enough for turning off the front of the lathe. Also make sure that the bed extension that bolts onto the bed on the outboard side of the head is with the lathe as you need that if you want to turn the head through 180 degrees and turn of the out board side otherwise there is nowhere for the banjo to go.
Ian.

 

[richburrow]

It was a slightly older version of your Ian.
I didn't go for it because it didn't sound quite right, could have been the bearings.
It was not for me, for school as an extra.
Never mind, it was worth a look.
You were right Chas not quite right.
Are you coming to brum in sept Chas?

 

[CHJ]

.....Are you coming to brum in sept Chas?

Yes Rich, we are both booked all being well with the world at the time.