Boxford Cud or ML7

[Trevor HowleyParticipant @trevorhowley19606]

As above Boxford Cud or ML7 I’m torn between the two is either better than the other ?

[Robert Atkinson 2Participant @robertatkinson2]

Assuming identical condition and accessories like chucks and you have the space, the Boxford without a doubt. My choice would be a BUD with VFD and Electronic Lead Screw.
Im a Myford owner.

Robert.

[Trevor HowleyParticipant @trevorhowley19606]

Why the VFD what benefits does this give.

[Trevor Howley]

On Trevor Howley Said:

Why the VFD what benefits does this give.

Variable speed + other programmable options, while driving a 3 phase motor.  A far better option than a single phase motor any day of the week.

[SillyOldDufferModerator @sillyoldduffer]

When buying second-hand lathes, I suggest condition matters far more than who made it.  And if all the accessories are still with it.

Assuming both are in good nick, I vote Boxford!  More solid than Myfords and less likely to be over priced.

Much depends on what the lathe is for.  A Boxford CUD is about a third as heavy again as an ML7 – is that good or bad?   If the lathe is a difficult install due to access problems, then the lighter ML7 is easier to handle.   If the lathe is required for seriously hard work, then the CUD is better.

Boxfords were preferred by industry and education because they are more robust.   That means they are more likely to have been abused than a Myford, but don’t  assume that!  Many Myfords were also worked good and hard.  A CUD was markedly more expensive than an ML7, but that means spares are expensive,  Condition!!!

On the downside, both are relatively slow, which is a disadvantage if you want to use carbide inserts.

Both lathes were made before electronics, so are probably fitted with single-phase motors.  They’re a compromise, not awful, but they vibrate, have poor starting torque, don’t speed control, and dislike stop-start operation.   The alternative is a 3-phase motor and VFD, which has a lot of advantages, but I would upgrade when the old motor kicks the bucket.  (Or brushless DC)

And are you metric or imperial?

Dave

 

 

[bernard towersParticipant @bernardtowers37738]

Sorry but by the way you talk I wonder how anyone manages with a single phase machine.

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