clausing 5400 or 6300 vs 5900

[gja]

Hi all
I am looking to get some opinions on the earlier Clausing lathes the model 6300 or 5400? How do these compare to the newer 5900 model. What should I look out for, should I wait for a good 5900. How does everyone like the hydraulic variable speed on the 5900 versus the mechanical variable speed on the older machines.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
thanks
george

[MikeHenry]

Never used a 6300 or 5400, but I like my 5914 even after forking over the cash ($730!) for a new motor pulley (this one has the hydraulic vari-speed drive).

It seems that there are a lot more 5900-series lathes listed on eBay than 6300's or 5400's. That may mean that there were a lot more of them sold, which might mean that parts availability is better for the 5900-series. I do know that Clausing was able to sell me all the parts I needed and the motor pulley was the only one that had me gasping for breath, price-wise.

Accessories are hard to come by, though. I've been looking for a steady rest, follower rest, and taper attachment for mine for about 9 months now without much luck.

You might want to visit the Yahoo Clausing group and browse the archives there. Also try searching Google Groups - lots of posts on the rec.crafts.metalworking newsgroup concerning Clausing lathes.

Mike, near Chicago

[paul j smeltzer]

I have had a Clausing 5913 since 1974 and have used it hard. I like it very much. During this time period i have had a leblond and a couple of south bends as well. Since my 5913 is very well tooled including a turrent tail stock as well as a standard tail stock, collets etc i sold off my other lathes. Paul

[gja]

Thanks for the help - I will probably concentrate on the 5900 series. What is a reasonable price for one?
george

[MikeHenry]

gja,

Price depends on a lot of factors, including condition, tooling, and geographical location. Here in the Chicago area, I'd expect to pay $1500-2500 for one in very good condition with at least a basic set of tooling (3-jaw & 4-jaw chucks, tailstock, centers, faceplate, toolpost & tool holders). Harder to find accesories like the steady & follower rests, milling attachment, coolant system, toolpost grinder, bed turret & turret tooling, production cross slide, taper attachment, 5C collet closer & collets, carriage stop, clutch kickout, etc. can increase the value, depending on how much you need/want them.

Mike, near Chicago

[gja]

Thanks Mike