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Oliver wood lathe

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fowldarr

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Joined
Oct 23, 2009
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1,067
Location
Coastal Oregon
Hey all, I have a limited time offer to pick up an Oliver No. 59 wood lathe for $180

I am told it is complete, has surface rust but turns great with no vibration.

I know for this question somebody is going to direct me to owwm or vintage machinery, but I'm not a member of those sites and y'all are my peeps. So school me on lathes!

I really just need to know, what to look for? Fair price? Good machine?

My son will probably use it more than me as I have limited lathe experience.

(Might have pics tomorrow)


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Craptain

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Apr 18, 2013
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Tampa Bay FL
I don't know that manufacturer so I will leave that to someone else. It's more than I ever paid but I am a cheapskate. So what it comes down to is performance. You covered that. Wear, check bearings and bed. Bearings could be adjustable, I have no idea. Headstock operating correctly, and tool rest in good condition. And a biggy. What is included. Look for a good set of chisels, chuck, faceplate, dead and live centers and spur drive. Is it on a stand?
All these things will factor in to the value but don't expect everything, though you could be surprised. Good luck and wait for more comments.

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catalytic

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Jul 16, 2011
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636
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Boston, Los Angeles, Cleveland
fowldarr said:
Hey all, I have a limited time offer to pick up an Oliver No. 59 wood lathe for $180
Click to expand...

^^ YOU ****

$500 would be a more 'normal' price. $180 for anything Oliver is easily you **** territory.

It's probably 3-phase and maybe has a multi-speed motor. Perfect application for a VFD. Although I always recommend getting a NEMA 4 or 4x VFD, you don't need that for a wood lathe (assuming no metal chips/dust will get into it).

Post up some pictures. I haven't taken apart an Oliver lathe yet, but I have been through a very similar Little Giant (a near copy of the Yates that competed with your Oliver). These are simple machines and maintenance is usually straight forward.

Also, if you are new to wood lathe work, spend a few minutes reading/youtubing about lathe safety. Lathes are easily one of the most dangerous machines in the shop. Wear a face shield (in case that wood you're turning splits and chunks start flying at you while doing a few hundred RPM), keep all loose clothing/stuff far away, and make sure you are ready to hit the stop button at any time.
 
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