Hi Everyone!
I'm looking for some input from the folks I trust and respect the most on woodturning topics - everyone on this forum.
So I think I'm ready to take advantage of the Woodcraft sale coming up and pull the trigger on upgrading my lathe (and bandsaw, but that's a different story). I currently have a Grizzly G0462 that has served me relatively well, but just doesn't let me do some of the things l'd like (mainly due to the reeves drive/fast RPM's, and some lack of features here and there).
My budget will allow me to go with the Jet 1642, that seems to get great reviews, here and elsewhere. Even with the sale, it's at the upper edge of my budget, considering I'll need to get some new accessories due to the difference in spindle size from my current lathe.
Here's my question. Is the 1 1/2 HP version underpowered for the swing of this lathe? I'm not worried about the small price difference between the 1 1/2 and 2 HP, I'm more worried with the cost of adding a sub panel and 220 line to my shop for the 2 HP motor.
A couple possibly helpful bits of info:
- I don't trust my electrician skills, and will most likely wan to hire an electrician to get it done properly
- I don't plan to go beyond the 16" swing (I know, I know...yet), but would like to be able to work on some out of balance type pieces, along with bowls and hollow forms
- I have a very "modest" shop, and don't anticipate needing any machines other than a lathe that would require 220V in the foreseeable future.
- I turn mainly as a hobby, and am not necessarily concerned with the power for production reasons, but for limiting any creativity with pieces I may want to try.
So, those that have either lathe, or have turned on them, do you have any advice. Would it be foolish to get the smaller motor, and use the money I'd spend for an electrician on accessories, chucks and tools instead??
Any and all insight is appreciated!!!
Dan