Northern Mill Lathe combo

[L5wolvesf]

This Northern Mill Lathe combo http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_7171_7171?isSearch=143352 has come available used near me. It looks very clean, like it has been hardly used. Wondering what y’all thought I should pay for it.

I am a nub when it comes to this sort of machinery, but I learn fairly quickly. This seems like it would be a good starting point for me. It would fit in the limited space I have available for it.

My main use would be for my auto related toys, including making parts (or modification of existing parts) for my SCCA car.

Thank you,
L

 

[andywander]

The main disadvantage of that particular 3-in-1 is that there is no provision for gearing the lathe leadscrew to the spindle-so you cannot do any threading on it. In my opinion, that knocks it out of consideration.

Another disadvantage of 3-in-1s in general, is that the mill portion is not very rigid, compared to a real mill.

That said, I own and use a 3-in-1 and i like it a lot. But mine will thread.....

 

[bora492]

I agree with andywander, but have to admit I have never cut threads with my machine (Emco Maximat) though it has geared X and Y axis. Mainly, I used the geared leadscrew when turning with the lathe to remove a consistant amount of material each revolution (and the ability to tune that speed based upon material).

With a 3-in-1, you just have to set expectations. I can remove about .010" of mild steel per pass (both lathe and mill). My friend with a Monarch 10EE lathe can hog off .25" of mild steel per pass. So, it takes me 25 times as longer to make parts than he does, but that doesn't bother me.

 

[Raydmo]

I am new to The Garage Journal. I have picked up a Northern Drill Mill for $100. I am trying to restore it but need a manual to better understand it. I know this is an old thread but does anyone know where a manual might be available for the Northern Tool 143352?

 

[rabidsquirrel]

https://assets.northerntool.com/products/143/documents/manuals/143352.pdf

 

[Raydmo]

Thank you just what I needed.