Virtues of 2 Lathes?

Keep it. This is the reason they made second op lathes. @Ulma Doctor listed some excellent ideas above.
(BTW- I have this lathe as my primary lathe.)
 
I definitely agree having more than 1 lathe is very useful. I'd set it up with a lever collet closer and use it for second op lathe too. I have a pair of DSM59's that serve that purpose. SO handy to set them up for special purpose when needed or just general simple second and third ops. Leave the main lathe with the DRO for main operations.
 
  • Like
Reactions: rwm
Certainly keep it. I have 4 lathes - they all get used. I “need” just one more! While that might be weird, it is not at all unusual for home machining folks. Every lathe is a little bit different - so is preferred for different operations, or you have one set up for some task, one breaks down (and other valid reasons above). People talk about the ultimate do everything lathe - I don’t believe it exists. With multiple similar machines, it covers more bases (even if it is just for convenience). Having a 10” & 14” makes a great paring. Unless you are absolutely out of space, you definitely should fix up and keep both lathes.
 
I have 2 and regularly use them both. My main one is a Grizzly G0709 14" x 40". The other is a Clausing 5418 12" x 24". I leave a set-tru 3J on the Grizzly and a 5C collet chuck on the Clausing. POTD dictates which one gets used.
 
I'd add the comment, "when you need to repair the other lathe" a second one is very useful. I had that happen to me. I made a replacement part in a couple hours for my lathe, rather than having to wait a week and a half for the part. Hard to do without a functioning lathe!
I’m currently using one lathe to refurbish the same model lathe, and I have a smaller one from the same manufacturer that pitches in from time to time too.

Then again if I started this thread it would be titled “Virtue of owning 5 lathes”..
 
Thanks for all the thoughtful input so far. Very helpful!

@dml66 - Per your request, I'll msg you if I decide to sell it.
 
Shame they don't have the same spindle taper. And I assume the 1440 is a BXA?
 
I have a Heavy 10 and a 1440. The Heavy 10 is kept in collects with a full range of round by 64ths, square by 18ths and hex by 16ths. Let me note that close-in work is a lot safer with a collet.
Most of the bigger castings/parts are done on the 1440. The smaller parts that need a 4-jaw are also done on the Heavy 10 with a 5c mounted chuck.
If you have the room, two lathes are quite handy. I reckon it could go without saying, but one can leave a setup on one lathe and use the other for a small part that needs done "now".

- Reed
 
Back
Top