I am happy to say my new lathe arrived this afternoon! It is a fantastic machine from Quality Machine Tools (www.machinetoolonline.com) made by Precision Matthews. I opted to go for the beefier option, getting the PM1127VF-LB large bore lathe with a larger, stronger spindle. I also got the quick-change tool post setup and the digital read-out. Matt at Quality really bent over backwards to help me get the unit as I wanted it and in as timely manner as he could. Quality is a great supplier, I would definitely recommend them.
I uncrated it this evening and I have to say it was like another Christmas! After unloading all of the ancillary items, I setup the base unit and moved the main unit onto two dollies so I can move it around as needed until it is installed on the base. I will definitely need a hoist, or have to convince some strong buddies they should help me lift it into place! Shipping weight was 671 lbs., so it’s definitely not a one-man job.
This weekend a pipe tooling maker, Trent Rudat (www.briarpipetooling.com) will be bringing me a new chuck made for drilling briar and will help me in setting the lathe up and making sure it is running true. Before then, as advised by another pipe maker with the same unit, I will be reinforcing the back section of the base unit.
Cannot wait until I get to use it! There will be more photos to come as the assembly progresses.
Until next time, happy piping!
Nate,
How do you like the lathe. I am about to pull the trigger an a PM1236 but at a 1200lb I am wondering if I can opt for th PM1127 instead. Will it do everything I need it to do as a pipemaker? Let me know your thoughts. Please
Much Regard,
GCiccolella
I do like it a great deal. The 1236 would likely be a better option, but the 1127 is pretty nice. It has done everything I have needed up to this point. Honestly, I think either would work well, but if I had it to do again, I’d probably go for the 1236.
I am waiting on one of theses lathes and am planning on using it for gunsmith work. I was wondering if you have seen any plans or pictures of someone building a rear spider for this lathe?
Dave
I haven’t dave, sorry. I only use it for pipes.