Looking @ Haas TL-3B

[rmkcyl]

Has anyone run or have a TL3 or more specifically the big bore version. I am looking at purchasing one but I have some reservations about it. We are a hydraulic cylinder rebuilder so we work with large heavy parts. I have read that these lathes cannot handle large parts and aslo like to run at higher RPM's. I have also heard of issues with the machine sagging unless the center of the machine is reinforced. Any thoughts on this lathe. We wold be using it to turn 1050 chrome rod stock anywhere from 3-8 inch diameter. Now we only typically turn and thread at the ends, hence why we are going with the dual chuck setup but we occasionally will turn components on center.

[pjr170]

I would recommend you stay away from this machine. I have the TL-3 model and the problems seem to just stack up. I cannot cut a straight part without programming a taper into the part using mastercam.....even at only 3" long cut, 6" out of the chuck. The tailstock repeats itself every million times or so.

Just my experience though, I hope others have had good luck. Oh yeah, just ask your haas dealer, everyone loves them.......