Craftsman Model 109 benchtop metal lathe

[phantomwarrior1]

I can get one of these mad cheap. Is this a good lathe in anyway or can this be a nice cheap lathe to experiment on in any way. Thanks

[acondit]

The 109 is not worth spending time on IMHO. I had one and the spindle is way too skinny for anything but the lightest work. Its spindle is only like 1/2" in diameter. The seig mini-lathe is much beefier than the 109 (costs more too). OTOH, the other style Craftsman 6" lathe is reasonably good. I have seen a lot of nice work done on one of them (if you can find one for a reasonable price).

Alan

[LUCKY13]

The 109 is what it is, but I have seen many people use these lathes with very good results. Ofcourse they knew what they where doing and worked on the lathes to help in ways they need. If the 109 is dirt cheap and it would be a first lathe I would go for it. Just remember things can start snowballing on you and before you know you have enough money in something that you could have bought a better machine. Having plenty of assy & tooling could help on the worth of the lathe. If you have to start buying chucks, change gears and tooling it will add up quick.



I see these lathes go for around $300.00 alot on Ebag, so if you can get it cheap/cheap ($100.00 or less ) you can always get your mooney back after you have played with it and got your feet wet.


Here is a good link with parts and lots of info on these little lathes. If I find one cheap enough close to home I would buy it myself, but you have to remember they are what they are. I like them myself, and where they have become quite a collectable item, returning your money if keep in good shape is no problem.

http://www.homeshopsupply.com/index.html


Jess

[crsatter]

Buy what you can afford. Depending on what you are going to do the 109 is going to be limited in what you will be able to do. They are less expensive than new and there are a lot of inexpensive parts, tools and accessories avaliable on e-bay. When you upgrade to something with more power what you have learned may keep you from damaging the lathe or more important yourself. Remember the accessories can add up to more than you spent on the lathe.
Have fun be Safe.

[jayhawkman]

If anyone is needing a new spindle(made from 4140) or bearings give me a call at 913 636 6107. Thanks Mike

[asuratman]

Hello jayhawkman,
Can you post any pictures your pindle or your website. Thanks.