Crazy Idea to convert a Landis Pipe threader into a Lathe

[Movin/on]

Many years ago I was given a Landis Pipe threader and just stuck it into the back of my shop. It's probably from the 1940's since it's got a 3" flat drive belt.
I've got the Manual somewhere and a large toolbox of the dies, Now what do I do with it?
It's probably 8 ft long and weighs (guess) over 1000#. It's complete with the 220V motor and switches. I've got it on casters.
Thinking of converting it to a rudimentary lathe just for a challenge/kicks. I do know the tolerances won't be that great but it does have about 12 " clearance to the bed.
Ideas? I'll try to get pictures in a few days. Not sure if I should have posted this in the Vintage Forum or Fabrication Forum instead.
Movin/on

 

[tool_scrounge]

Wood lathe: yes, that could work well if the speed range is OK

Metal lathe: maybe not. I worry it will not be stiff enough

 

[crguy]

Don't waste your time.

 

[Walkers]

They are worth a fair amount, just sell it on ebay and buy a lathe.

 

[RoninB4]

I doubt it would have the speed for a wood lathe. Changing the motor/pulleys will simply have the spindle rotating faster than the spindle bearings/bushings can handle and wear out in short order. As a metal lathe it's likely not rigid enough to handle the cutting forces. Not enough speed changes, capstan operated carriage, no tail stock. Not a great choice for conversion, especially if it's worth a good buck selling as is.

If it's really worth what Walkers (above poster) suggested then selling it to fund a purchase of proper machinery would be worth investigating. It may have enough mass but is the mass in the places it needs to be? Photo if you can.

 

[PoorUB]

Many years ago I was given a Landis Pipe threader and just stuck it into the back of my shop. It's probably from the 1940's since it's got a 3" flat drive belt.
I've got the Manual somewhere and a large toolbox of the dies, Now what do I do with it?
It's probably 8 ft long and weighs (guess) over 1000#. It's complete with the 220V motor and switches. I've got it on casters.
Thinking of converting it to a rudimentary lathe just for a challenge/kicks. I do know the tolerances won't be that great but it does have about 12 " clearance to the bed.
Ideas? I'll try to get pictures in a few days. Not sure if I should have posted this in the Vintage Forum or Fabrication Forum instead.
Movin/on

I am with the sell it or scrap it and buy a lathe. I can not image anyone could build even a half *** usable lathe for reasonable money. Plus when you are done you have a cobbled up "something" that nobody wants.