Ok,
Thanks for the heads up - I understand the effects of a VFD on an AC motor - so that makes sense. I have been looking for information and was hoping to find a basic document that listed options and dates when available and perhaps 'desirabililty', although there is a lot of information out there, have yet to find this type of doc.
The price question is because I see them all over the map - $2500 - $20K, and I have a limited budget, and no understanding of the price points, but do have time to wait. The problem is knowing when to 'pull the trigger' - cuz I COULD us a bit more patience...
Thanks
Ray
My order of importance for a machine purchase is condition, included tooling, then location. A day's drive that nets chucks, steady rests and other tools is much better than saving a few dollars on the purchase.
I just bought a 1956 Monarch 10ee, unit was in Texas being cared for by forum member Butch. She's now in my shop in Florida. Machine is in overall good condition (verified with a test bar) and came well tooled with nice 3 jaw, nice 4 jaw, lever collet closer, Jacobs rubberflex chuck, centers, drill chuck, 1 dog plate, 2 face plates, tool post and several boxes of electrical spares including some tubes for the drive. Total cost to purchase, transport and setup just north of $7k.
Monarch 10ee are often available at a lower price if the drive is not functioning. This is primarily because the tube based drive systems can be complex to troubleshoot and job shops want machines that run all day, every day and can be fixed by anyone with a hammer and screwdriver.
You should put a "Wanted" post in the For sale / wanted section here and see if one of the members would sell you one. I have seen burnt out 1/2 way decent machines sell for $2500.00 on machinery dealers floor.
If you want to see what dealers are selling go to Surplusrecord.com and machinetools.com and place a wanted ad. That wanted is sent to all the dealers around the world.
Both good suggestions. Dig around here in the forum and you'll find some of the things you can inspect even when a machine is not powered. If you decide to spend more, say 8-15k, either inspect in person or buy from a reputable dealer that provides a full inspection.
This forum and in particular the forum members have a wealth of knowledge and will gladly help if you find a machine at the right price that needs a bit of work.
Happy hunting.
Ryan