I miss work for only one thing and that’s the fine collection of machine equipment at my disposal. When I retired I ‘bought’ a little Chester’s lathe that has served me well but it’s limitations are a bit frustrating at times

So I have a hankering after a myford ML7. There’s no logical reason why but I have the feeling that I’d be happier with the Myford than the Chesters

And yes I fully understand the merits of each and the limitations of both.

I guess it a bit like I have a desire for an Omega moonwatch but it won’t tell the time any better than my Seiko!

………….

My son has one. Wants to sell it as he's discovered children and being penniless now..

I always had a hankering after a helical cutting planer/thicknesser instead of the straight cutter one, so I swapped in the Black Friday sale. Similar problem to the above.

During my Tech. days many many years ago, we had Myfords, but was not keen on them, probably because they were well used (abused) by previous students. My preference was for DSG's for medium work and for precision work we had Hardinge centre lathes also Hardinge centerless turret lathes. I worked in the Aerospace industry mid sixties early seventies.

I would expect for home use the Myford would be perfect.

If you do go for a Myford lathe, then seek out a Super 7 model with quick change gearbox. It’s much better and you won’t regret it.

My old Myford 'M' type .... 1946 and still going strong ... pic reminds me that corner of the workshop needs digging out! 🙂 ... admittedly I don't do much precision work but it's ideal for general turning.




K

You will not go wrong with a myford mine is from 1951 and still going strong (a bit like triggers broom) re-ground bed and sliders and a new chuck and motor.

you can still buy a new Myford ML7/super7 etc. a firm in Halifax bought all the old stock and assembles new ones for sale, about £12,000 I think. they also sell every part you could want for a ml7

David Byrne

Please stop...I've always wanted a small lathe for bit's 'n bobs, and now you've rekindled the 'what if'

250 quid well spent! ... does all I need and being belt drive is nice and forgiving ... belt slips before there's too much destruction if you get over-enthusiastic or under-observant! 🙂

K

I don't know how you can live without a lathe.


Thats true but funny. Been there a few times!
Cheers
John