how about this idea for outboard turning

[Chris Haas]

my jet bed idea was a little weak, ok. but how about this

Amazon sells the powermatic 4224 banjo ie 24 inch swing for about $170 http://www.amazon.com/Powermatic-6295846-Outboard-Toolrest-Assembly/dp/B001ICBMD8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1251049654&sr=1-1

and the 18 inch powermatic bed extension for about $220 http://www.etoolclub.com/index.cfm?area=shop&action=detail&iid=137375

add a little for shipping and i think i can get 24 inches of outboard turning for under 400 bucks. now in know the 1642 probably doesnt have the weight to handle that, but ballast box is not that difficult. also. if i ever wanted to sell the 1642, i can unbolt all that stuff and use it on the new lathe.

so, what do you think.

now i just need $400.

[Dennis Ford]

If you are talking about turning platters, shallow bowls or small table tops then I think the Jet 1642 is plenty of lathe for 24" diameter. On the other hand, if you are thinking of mounting a chain sawn chunk of wood that weighs a few hundred pounds - better get a larger lathe. A ballast box may make your machine run smoother but does not increase its strength.