I am looking at purchasing a Clausing 5914 lathe and I figured I would ask if there are any key areas that I should inspect before dropping the cash and hauling it home. The owner stated that he does not have the ability to power it up and I am assuming due to 3 phase power needed on these lathes. I know I will not be able to operate the variable speed drive which seems to be the only thing I have seen that are problematic on these lathes so I guess I will just have to take a chance on that part of the lathe. I assume everything else I should be able to inspect to a point by hand turning the spindle? The ways look to have light surface rust but from the pictures it is not so much I think it will be a huge issue. Any tips on what to look for on this lathe would be great. Also any suggestions on how to test the variable speed without power? Also are these lathes prone to having badly worn ways or are they fairly tight machines even with some age on them? This lathe looks rough but its mostly due to pealing paint.
Thanks
Mike
Thanks
Mike