Jet 1442 lathe

[Mark Gibney]

I'm having motor issues with my older Delta lathe, so looked on craiglist and saw this Jet 1442 for $1,000

losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/tls/d/jet-1442-wood-lathe/6673065684.html

Is this a good lathe, and is this a fair price?

For the most part I turn simple legs for stools and tables.

thanks, Mark

[Geoff Crimmins]

The bed and legs seem to be the same heavy ones that are used on the Jet 16" lathe. I wouldn't use the extension that's on the banjo. This lathe uses an inexpensive Reeves drive, which I don't this is as nice or as reliable as the electronic variable speed used in their 16" lathe and mini/midi lathes. I don't really know if that's a fair price, though it does seem a little high to me. If you're just turning spindles you might look at Jet's 10" or 12" mini lathe with the bed extension. I think they're still available with step pullies or electronic variable speed. Either works fine, though once you've used EVS there's no going back. :)

--Geoff

[Dwight Rutherford]

Looking at the picture of the motor plate indicates this lathe was made in 2005. It has a Reeves drive to give variable speed. These can be problematic and parts are hard to find. Think the price is high.

[Mark Gibney]

Well thanks guys, I'll pass on this one.

Can you recommend a lathe that I should look out for?
I'm not keen on a mini lathe with a bed extension, I turn the occasional bowl.

thanks.