New lathe

[mmayo]

When I turned five bottle stoppers and 20+ pens my Rikon mini lathe started making unhappy noises so I bought a new bigger model. That 1 horse motor sounds unstoppable and very smooth. It was close between this lathe and an equivalent Jet lathe, but this one fit on the existing stand and rolling support quickly and for free. I'll have the bearings replaced in the mini and get it back to work too.

I have a new post for my Rick Herrell tool rests in order. Thanks Rick for great products and helpful ideas.

 

[mmayo]

Old Rikon mini-lathe

Old lathe

Produced

450+ cedar plugs
400+ pens
70+ razors, shave brushes and stands
5 bottle stoppers

After new bearings and perhaps a new belt it will be back to work again.

 

[TonyL]

Enjoy and many happy turnings!

 

[RobS]

Sweet!!!! Shiney time to get it dusty.

 

[nava1uni]

I have this same lathe and it is 10 years old and still has it's original bearings. When I was first turning someone told me to not tighten down the tailstock too hard or it could cause premature failure of the bearings. I have found this to be good advice. That Rikon is a great smaller lathe.

 

[mmayo]

Lathe is a winner

New lathe is amazing; you guys with full size lathes must smile a lot when you turn stuff because this midi made my day. The added power and torque along with general smoothness is superb. While items still need to be modified to get it right, it works great.

By the way I too have heard and read to resist over tightening the tailstock. I vow to do better in this area.