Hi there Ron,

As far as small lathes are concerned - something like a Hobbymat is maybe
a good plan.

I own an old Myford M (swing of 10" over the gap) and this has had a fair
amount of abuse, such as machining of wheels from square steel blanks
(don't ask - just don't ask).

I use a Hobbymat when 'on my travels' but thought it would be very
flexible in comparison, but I find its very good.

You shouldn't pay more than 200 pounds for a second hand one though, and
you really want the slow speed attachment for turning cast iron wheels.

Details are on www.lathes.co.uk

You could try buying one via e-bay, but please don't buy one unseen - you
want to see it running and see if turn a piece of bar to check that the
bearings aren't knackered, etc. Also you want to make sure the bed is
intact and not damaged. A certain amount of play on some parts can be
taken up by adjustment/gib strips - but if in doubt try and persuade
someone who knows their stuff to come along with you to inspect it.

Spare parts are still available from Essel engineering BTW.

Anyone else have any opinions on the Hobbymat that would back up or
contradict my experiences?


Yours,


Rich.




On Tue, 17 Oct 2006, roconnor1956 wrote:

> Hi All,
> I would very much like to get in to the construction of 2.5 inch steam
> locomotives.
> However,I have no model engineering expertise but would be obliged if
> any members can suggest the following:
>
> 1) A simple design that I can attempt to build as a first project.
> 2) Recommendations for a lathe (which I will have to learn to use).
> Space in my garage is at an absolute premium, so I would like to look
> for the smallest lathe possible.
> Any advice would be much appreciated
> I look forward to hearing from you all,
> Many Thanks,
> Ron
>
>
>
>
>
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