Delta Lathe Choice Opinion??

[David Beeler]

Delta 46-715 3 year old or new Delta 46-460VS with extension bed. The used 46-715 is $250 less money.

Which would you buy. I saw several knocks on the 46-715 in the Amazon reviews about build quality but don't know if that was worked out during the lathes life cycle. I am leaning toward the new 46-460 but was wondering if the community consensus was the same or if I was missing something in my thinking.

Thanks for any opinions.
David

[Tony De Masi]

David, I owned the 46-715 but have no first hand knowledge of the new one. I didn't like the reeves drive on mine. It just never worked smoothly which led to me replacing the drive belt way before I should have had to. The leg assembly is way too light in my opinion too. Also, IIRC, the low speed was way too fast for spinning out of round bowl blanks. Is this the one in Md. for $495?

Tony

[Bernie Weishapl]

David I would take the 46-460 VS with bed extension any day. The 46-715 like Tony said has a reeves drive, low speed of around 500 rpm, only has a 3/4 hp motor, etc. The 46-460 has a 1 hp motor along with the variable speed and IMHO worth the extra $250.

[Peter Lamb]

I agree with Bernie and it also has F/R. Works better than advertised.
I love my machine!!
Peter

[John Keeton]

Don't know anything about the older Delta, but I LOVE my 46-460!! Besides, you are getting a 5 year warranty on the new one. I don't know if the warranty would transfer on the older one.

[Donny Lawson]

46-460 would be my opinion.I have one and it's GRREEATTTT.I love the smooth operation.
Donny

[Greg Just]

I have the Delta 46-715 and it has served me well for 4+ years. Contrary to others, I have had no problems, just a little maintenance and a new belt. I have no knowledge of the 46-460 and if I were buying a lathe for the first time I might pick it. I wish the 46-715 had a slower speed, but I deal with it. It comes down to budget and what you want to do with the lathe.

[David Beeler]

Thanks for the input guys. Tony, this one is in TN for $500.

David