Good afternoon. I have been reading many posts on this site as I am considering buying an early Hendey pre-tie bar lathe (14x6) through a friend. It was restored by a tool&die maker and is fully functional and looks clean. I plan on taking a look at it soon, although it is not in my state and getting it home could be an issue.
This will be my first lathe. I am very mechanical, having restored/rebuilt/painted cars in the past. My intent for the lathe is to take my time learning how to use it and then figure out what to make from there (I also plan on buying an older mill). This is strictly a tinkering hobby for me (I may retire soon).
Am I crazy with this approach? Will this old lathe handicap my learning or future hobbyist capability (I am also looking at a Clausing 5439 lathe). Assuming it is functioning correctly it should last a lifetime, right? I am concerned that there are no replacement parts readily available. However, I like really old things - therefore my attraction to the old Hendey (wife thinks I have lost my mind).
Your thoughts?
Thanks for your time and advice.
Rob
This will be my first lathe. I am very mechanical, having restored/rebuilt/painted cars in the past. My intent for the lathe is to take my time learning how to use it and then figure out what to make from there (I also plan on buying an older mill). This is strictly a tinkering hobby for me (I may retire soon).
Am I crazy with this approach? Will this old lathe handicap my learning or future hobbyist capability (I am also looking at a Clausing 5439 lathe). Assuming it is functioning correctly it should last a lifetime, right? I am concerned that there are no replacement parts readily available. However, I like really old things - therefore my attraction to the old Hendey (wife thinks I have lost my mind).
Your thoughts?
Thanks for your time and advice.
Rob