it has been asked before ...

[spkrman15]

I know, I know but one more time. I am going to look at a lathe this week-end. New one at a shop and i am looking at 2 models. One is a belt driven and the other is a geared lathe. I am planning on doing some repairs and would like to concentrate on the light industrial stuff. Bushings, pins etc.

I have a belt lathe now and it does get a little anoying switching the belts pulleys. This would probably be my long term lathe as well.

your input is greatly appreciated

Spkrman15

[Joel]

Not 100% sure what you are asking, but quick speed changes are HUGE to me. I have used gear head lathes exclusively, and have never had any trouble.

[bdarin]

Since you already have a belt lathe, then a geared one is in order. Geared is better anyway, like Joel says, speed changes are faster. Just don't get you fingers or clothes caught in a geared lathe...gears don't slip like belts do (I still have my left thumb to prove it. The feeling's almost 100% back in it).

[SGW]

I have been saved too many times to count by a slipping belt when my lathe tool has jammed. A gear-head lathe may be more efficient, but for my personal use I'm REALLY happy to have belt drive.

[spkrman15]

So it is 2 for geared and 1 for belt.

The quick speed change would be nice. Althought i just broke two indexable carbide's tonight. A geared lathe would have probably thrown the piece out of the chuck. Hmmmmm

Spkrman15

[Evan]

I must agree with SGW, not saying that I have crashed my lathe, but when that cutoff tool dig in it doesn't usually go SNAP! Positive drive scares me. Also, for the home shop, belt is really quiet.

[Thrud]

A poorly made gear lathe can transmit "noise" to the workpiece and produce chatter that is impossible to track down and eliminate. In that regard a belt lathe is only surpassed by a direct connected brushless motor. Many high end lathes have variable speed sheaves (belt drive). Nothing wrong with them other than added complexity.

[uute]

Is the gearhead lathe 100% gear drive (from pinion on motor)?

Many of the Imports have 3 or 4 geared speeds in 2 or 3 ranges on a belt driven input. A little slippage when you need it, some speed options up front, some inconvience in range changes.

Not the worst way to go. I'd like to have a "Back Gear" or 2 speed motor, but get by. : )

uute

[SJorgensen]

I use a 1" wide automotive flat belt and I many times been relieved that it can slip when there is something jambed. Otherwise I have a very adjustable belt tension. It only slips when I am pushing it way too hard. In a way I feel it gives me good feedback, and a good checks/balance to its operation. Another vote for the old ways.

Spence

[spkrman15]

The lathe i am looking at has a belt from the motor going to the gear box. Would that be the best of both worlds?

I never thought of the vibration transfer. Good point.

It looks like belt is taking the lead over gear drive

Spkrman15