Advice on Equipment and Suppliers

[KenJParticipant @kenj]

I’m getting close to that point in life where time becomes available for other activities. Model Engineering has always held an interest and I’m amazed at the quality of models produced from the “garden shed”; truly astounding!

In my case, I will eventually purchase the main machinery items, such as Lathe and Mill etc. and based on those, will decide what is and what is not possible to build.

Having looked on the net at the suppliers and equipment available, the main items of equipment that currently have my attention are;

· Milling Machine – (SIEG Super X3 HiTorque Mill from Arc Euro Trade) and (MI-AMAT45V-R8M-ANH from Amadeal).

· Lathe – (AMA280VFF bench lathe from Amadeal).

Whilst the main equipment is important, so is the backup service, so my questions are, has anyone any comments on (1) choice of equipment and (2) the suppliers?

Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

[KenJParticipant @kenj]

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

Welcome to the forum Kenneth,

I'll bump your post.

Neil

[JasonBModerator @jasonb]

There are several suppliers who do the 280 all with slight variations to spec and what you get in the basic price so worth shopping around. Some don't include faceplate, 4-jaw or steadies so you need to take that into account when comparing prices.

For example you can get the same lathe for £45 more including all those items, but its painted green and yellow and also comes with a more useful inverter drive, the Amadeal that does not include them

[mechman48Participant @mechman48]

welcome Ken

+1 for JasonB comments, I have the green & yellow 250V-F that came with 3 & 4 jaw chucks, fixed & travelling steadies, plus other bits 'n' bobs so worthwhile checking around to see what your shekels gets you all included… not as optional extras, usual disclaimer.

George.

[BazyleParticipant @bazyle]

Not all suppliers manage to list every part on their website so you still need to check with them what parts are included if not specifically mentioned. There are some who do make it clear that eg a chuck is not included by listing it as an extra.

Then also check delivery cost and if it is themselves who care about arrival condition or a courier in a hurry.

Another hurdle once you have made up your mind is to find the item is still on the ship rounding the Cape.

[KenJParticipant @kenj]

Many thanks to all for your response; it’s greatly appreciated. This is the kind of information that I was looking for, so keep it coming.

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