Is this lathe worth it?

[CruisinGA]

I may have the chance to buy this lathe, but I don't have any idea how much it's worth, etc.

American Machine Tool out of Carson CA
Turnmaster 13"
Serial 1340F08840185
13"x40"

I've been working in a machine shop part time for the last couple of years, so I am a reasonably proficient machinist, but I don't know much about manufacturers or tool prices.

The lathe has hardly been used the last 4-5 years, has the x-axis encoder for a DRO, but the y-axis encoder was damaged and removed. To the casual observer, it seems to be in pretty good shape.

I might be able to get it for $500. Anyone know what kind of price is appropriate?

Thanks,
Bailey

 

[zebrabeefj40]

If it runs and is complete that is a good price IMHO. I run an American lathe almost daily at work (a 25" x 120" Pacemaker). They're definitely well made machines. For a price comparo you might search for "Turnmaster" or "American" on EBay. EBay prices tend to be higher than private sales but at least it'll get you in the ballpark.

Nick

 

[CruisinGA]

This ebay auction is for what seems to be the exact same lathe - just more used
13" X 40"TURNMASTER ENGINE LATHE,MOTOR 3 HORSEPOWER - eBay (item 170094727189 end time Mar-17-08 13:28:23 PDT)

The buy it now is for $4.5k+.

So I'm thinking $500 may be alright.

Anyone with experience- please chip in.

 

[nat]

is it a 3 phase or single phase machine?

 

[CruisinGA]

3 phase.

I have 230 service in my garage, but not three phase.

I wonder if a converter be viable? Or maybe I should source a single phase motor for it?

 

[nat]

there are converters available.............just not sure how much they are

 

[D'Animal]

Rotex makes a converter.

 

[El Cazador]

Would post your question to one of the machining websites and see what kind of feedback you get.

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But if it's a decently made machine and in reasonably good condition, grab it and don't look back. Don't worry about replacing w/ a single phase motor. Get a phase converter, 10 hp rotary if you can afford it, and start making chips. Just make sure it's running well and the bed's not trashed.

 

[Trevor]

You can also make your own rotary phase converter with a spare 3 phase motor. It's kinda . I have never done it myself, but an old machinist I worked with told me about it.

As you probably know, the lathe is the cheap part. The tools get expensive.