Suggestions??

[John Bush]

I have a small, older Rockwell lathe that has limited capabilities, and I have the opportunity to buy an almost new Powermatic 4224 with some accessories. I haven't done a great deal of turning, but have always wanted to "step-up" in lathes and this may be good timing. What experiences/impressions/suggestions do any of you knowledgable SMC'ers have to share and what is a fair $$ for a machine like this?? Thanks, John.

[Dennis Peacock]

Well, I believe that you'll find several folks here on The Creek have "Mustard Lathes" in their shops.....mine included. I have the 3520A and have loved it from the day it arrived. I don't believe you can go wrong with the 4224.

[TYLER WOOD]

Typically and arm, leg, two toes, and a right uhhhh never mind, keeping it family friendly. Just kidding. not sure but jealous of you getting the opportunity! Go for it, you will love it!

[Curt Fuller]

Amazon lists that machine for just under 4k. I can't see how it would depreciate very much. And you said it has "some accessories". Depending on what the accessories are they could be a few hundred dollars easily. 10-20% below the new price would be a great deal if they'll take it. That would definitely be a "step up" in lathes, that's a lot of machine!

[Patrick Taylor]

A lot of turners prefer the 3520 over the 4224 because of the sliding headstock, which allows turning with the bed out of the way and allows outboard turning for swing greater than 20" (or 24"). I (re)posed the 3520 vs. 4224 question here and got the following advice:
http://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=50740 (http://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=50740&highlight=4224+3520)

That said, in my limited experience I think the 4224 and the 3520 are both fantastic machines.

hope that helps.