Monarch 16CW vs 18CU

[Hatconversions]

Guys, I have a 16CW that I bought a couple months ago. Today I bought a 18CU. Anyone have any opinions on which is the best machine? The tail stock on the 18 is way heavier, even though it’s still only an MT4. The 18 has an indicated handle for the Z axis on the bed. The 18 also has a geared cross feed. And the 18 has the additional reverse feed for threading.
The 16 is the one that had been stored in Cosmoline since ‘68. The 18 has been used, but has a big sign advertising flam hardened ways. The 16CW is a really clean machine, but the 18 appears to have more options. Any comments, Bobby

 

[Hatconversions]

P.S....... the 16 is a 1941. The 18 is a 1945

 

[marka12161]

"Better" depends on your needs. The 16 will likely swing 18 1/2" over the ways, the 20, probably 21 1/2 or 22. If it were me, for general use, i would consider which ever one is in better condition to be better. Also, 54" between centers is a nice size. Since you have both, i'm not sure it matters.