12 x 36 lathe questions

[Elninio]

Does anyone know which import type 12 x 36 lathes have the inch&metric dials? If the model im looking for doesnt, what is the easyest way this can be fixed?

[skeeter]

I have the HF 12 x 36. Its has both metric and standard dials on the crossfeed and the compound. I use the dial settings for most turning and threading. Works for me.

[kevinro]

At first I didn't like having both metric and inches on my dials. UNTIL, I actually had to do something metric, in which case I decided this wasn't so bad!

The key thing to look for is that your favorite system is used to determine the travel for 1 turn. Mine moves .100 per turn.

Kevin

[.RC.]

What model are you looking at a link would be good??????

Most new lathes are going to have inch/metric dials. What unit of measurement you work in should be a big bearing on what lathe you buy.

My lathe has dual dials but metric pitch screws. I work in metric so this suits me. My geared head mill drill(which i am now going to sell) has dual dials as well but imperial pitch screws. When one turn of the handle equals 2.4643737455765mm it's an absoloute pain to use.

My new turret mill(bridgeport clone) is completely legacy free. No imperial graduations to be seen. Just what I wanted.


I suggest you just get out there and see what's available in person if possible. Being a youngster you may have trouble with some dealers treating you like a kid and either ignoring you or trying to screw you. If they don't treat you like a client don't deal with them...

See Ya

[Elninio]

BusyBee 12 x 36 gear head and ringer please sell me that mill/drill if possible! Im desprate to buying one, i hope you live in Canada cuz buying from the states is out of the question for me!

[Elninio]

Also yes, i work im milimeters mostly, but inch capabilities are also required, i find it easier for the screw to be imperial if your using imperial as much as metric, its easier to calculate, it takes me about a minute to calculate 1/16 + 1/2, about 0.01 second to get 39 + 12 mm ...... Get my point?

[hoffman]

Someone forgot their Ritalin...

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Hoffman in Warner Robins Ga

[mochinist]

I have never seen dials with fractions on them. Just as easy for me to add .500 + .062 as it is to add 39 + 12. Thats just me though.

[John Stevenson]

How about doing 31/64 and 23/32 off a drawing in your head.

[uncrichie]

I just got the Harbor Freight circular in the mail today. 12x36 is on sale for $200 off the regular price. I think its good til the first week of January. That'll pay for the stand. Good luck, Uncrichie...