I just received this lathe and set it up on the work bench. When I turned it on I hear some noise coming from the headstock area. This lathe is new and I am a novice at this turning thing.

Does anyone have the Rikon? If so, what level of noise do your hear (I know this is somewhat subjective) when you run the lathe unloaded? I spoke with Rikon Tech support and while they were helpful they suggested that I check to be sure that all the pulleys and bolts were tight on the lathe. I did remove the belt and the noise is not present when just the motor is running. I tensioned the belt per the manual.

I am just trying to find out if I have a real problem or just normal mechanical noise. My only point of reference is my drill press and the lathe is louder than that. Thanks for reading.