Cue Lathe recommendation for cue repairs

Dwalk70

Member
Would like to purchase a nice cue lathe for shaft repairs, maintenance. Can I get a recommendation for a good one?
 
Would like to purchase a nice cue lathe for shaft repairs, maintenance. Can I get a recommendation for a good one?
You have many option. Everything from a dedicated cue lathe (I bought mine from Chris Hightower) to a metal lathe. Depends on what you want to do with it and how much money you want to spend. Buying a lathe for cue repair and maintenance is like buying a table saw; buy your last one first.
 
Would like to purchase a nice cue lathe for shaft repairs, maintenance. Can I get a recommendation for a good one?
I bought a cheap Chinese metal lathe off Amazon 7x14 $600 and it's great for shaft repair or building if you add a steady rest of some sort out on the end. Other than that your looking at $1500 and up unless you can find a deal on used.
 
If you just want to clean shafts and replace tips, simple and basic is all you need. If you are planning to do more a real machine is a must. I built a homemade lathe which due to its lack of precision is only good for tips and cleaning. It was enough for me to see that I wanted to do more so I ordered a Mid America lathe which is due to be delivered today.
 
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If you just want to clean shafts an replace tips, simple and basic is all you need. If you are planning to do more a real machine is a must. I built a homemade lathe which due to its lack of precision is only good for tips and cleaning. It was enough for me to see that I wanted to do more so I ordered a Mid America lathe which is due to be delivered today.

Going to be a fun day for you :)
 
Had leg surgery this morning. It was being delivered right when I got home. Now I have to look at the box while I rest a while with my leg up.

It’s like getting a bike for Christmas and it’s snowing out.

Hopefully I’ll be able to play later.
Bummer, hope the leg gets better soon. Mine arrived while at work so I had to run home and sign for it and inspect package then go back to work :(

ok I’ll look at those two companies. Would like to buy USA made

You can't go wrong with either one.
 
Sneak peak. Got it mostly set up. I replaced the basic tool post with an OXA quick change tool post. I had to modify the base plate to get it to mount on the cross slide. I’ll get the right size drill bit tomorrow so I can finish the base plate for the dial indicator. I also need to bolt the whole thing to the bench so it won’t move. It’s a beautiful thing!

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UPDATE: Got the dial indicator mounted and the base bolted down. Also built some drawers using scraps and an old serving tray for tools and supplies. rough but cheap and functional.

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First lathe...decide exactly what you want to do with it. Will you expand.. do more than tips. I got into canes, joint protectors... no limits. As said earlier... buy once cry once
 
SSDiver, Howdy;

Nice set-up, what are you doing about dust/wood chip collection?

hank

I have a small setup. I am using a basic shop vac and I have an air purifier.
Here is another thread on my setup so far.

 
I have a small setup. I am using a basic shop vac and I have an air purifier.
Here is another thread on my setup so far.

Try to buy a HEPA filter for the shop vac… the dust will pass through a regular filter back into the room.
 
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