So, I had been looking for a lathe for some time. Something not too big and heavy, and of course not too expensive. After several dead ends, I saw an ad for a South Bend "in excellent condition for its age". Short story shorter: I went to have a look, was surprised by how tiny it was (a 9 C, 3' bed), and the condition left much to be desired, but I still brought it home (I partially blame the restoration videos I had binge watched the night before on Youtube). Looks were deceiving: despite the small size, damn it's heavy! Struggled to get it loaded into the van, had to dismantle it to get it unloaded and into the garage back home. First verdict: Well, it seems to be a 1939, catalog number 615-YC. Has a brass plate from a Swedish import company so it probably came to Sweden when new. It has enough colours to look good in a Pride parade. The chuck is very worn, have to attempt grinding. Bed seems ok, spindle is tight, motor is upgraded (.5hp 3-phase). Gear tumbler is missing! I did not even realise that, the gear banjo was turned up against the spindle and lead screw was turning all the time. The superheavy cast iron chip pan/table is a big plus, needs some TLC to the wooden drawers and cabinet though. Did not come with much accessories, but seems to have all the gears.
Since it is already semi-dismantled (and I enjoy fixing things anyhow) I will go all the way with full restore and paint job on this.
As seen in ad
At home
Table
Things that make it go
Some mystery items and a backing plate
Shortcut
Charts
Since it is already semi-dismantled (and I enjoy fixing things anyhow) I will go all the way with full restore and paint job on this.
As seen in ad
At home
Table
Things that make it go
Some mystery items and a backing plate
Shortcut
Charts