Axminster M950

[9fingers]

Hi,

I'm about to become the owner of an Axminster M950. Quite an early model in blue rather than the more modern white ones.

Is there anything I should know about this machine good, bad or indifferent?

It has a mechanical variable speed system. does this work Ok ? Is it heavy on belts?

I've never used a wood lathe before although I've been turning and milling metal for 30 years & more.

Is there a beginners book such as "woodturning for dummies" that is a clear must have or is it best to just get stuck in and make some shavings.

TIA

Bob

 

[CHJ]

Bob, the bible as far as Turning is concerned would be Keith Rowleys Book A Foundation Course in my opinion.

As far as the lathe drive is concerned, belts are not a problem as long as you give the belt and pulleys a clean out and lubricate about once a month.

(grease the motor shaft pulley and dry lube the headstock shaft with PTFE spray, don't worry if spray goes on belt, I never found it a problem.)

 

[9fingers]

Thanks Chas,

Your recommendation is much appreciated.

Bob

 

[PowerTool]

Can only agree with what Chas said - after following his advice on the monthly maintenance,I've just changed the belt on my Perform CCBL after 17 months and didn't need to;slight wear on the sides,but nothing excessive.
And Keith Rowleys book is excellent - a good read through should have you making lots of sawdust safely

Andrew

 

[9fingers]

Thanks Andrew,
I've just ordered the book second hand. It will match the lathe then. :lol:

I've got more than enough other things to do but I'm sure I'll sneak into the workshop to make a few trial 'round' shavings.

Bob

 

[santiniuk]

Bob,

I picked up the white model of ebay and think its a cracking lathe.

My only complaint (which is discussed on here somewhere) is that the if you use a typical faceplate with anything big, the motor endcap protrudes enough for the wood your turning to foul on.

No problem if you use a chuck however. If you do find this a problem axminster do a 'special' faceplate but it's not cheap in comparison to typical faceplates.

I was lucky and a toolmaker friend made me one.

Good luck with your purchase.

 

[9fingers]

Thanks for the heads up regarding faceplate work.
I can easily knock up an extending adaptor as I have a metalworking workshop too!

regards

Bob

 

[CHJ]

Thanks for the heads up regarding faceplate work.
I can easily knock up an extending adaptor as I have a metalworking workshop too!

regards

Bob

Or just use a piece of scrap timber 1" or so thick between the faceplate and the blank.

 

[Steve Blackdog]

Bob

I went down to the local library and picked up four or five helpful books on turning technique. Well worth a try.

Steve

 

[9fingers]

Thanks Steve,

We only have a small library but I'll give it a go. The main regional libraries are in the town with no useful parking.

Bob