Jet 1642 lathe

Jet 1642 lathe · 10-13-2009, 11:12 PM

I'm still looking to pull the trigger on a lathe sooner than later.
I want a PM but the cost is still a concern.
The Jet 1642 and Nova DVR XP are both around $1700 and wondered if anyone has a 1642 they could comment on. I think the Nova has been discussed before.
Thanks

timf67 · 10-14-2009, 08:53 AM

I picked up a used 1642EVS from someone on this site, and have LOVED it! You definately want to get the EVS version, it is worth every penny. As for 1.5 hp vs. 2 hp, I can't comment but the 1.5hp is doing everything I need it to do. You can PM me if you have any specific questions or want to discuss it further.

gritz · 10-14-2009, 09:17 AM

I bought the Jet 1642EVS on the $1,699 sale with free shipping. Unfortunately, I can't comment on the performance as it is sitting on the floor of the shop with a new Powermatic bandsaw awaiting the new subpanel I need to install.
If I had known the Nova DVR XP was going to be available at approximately the same price I probably would have bought that one just for the convenience and total variability. The only drawbacks I can see with it may be the electronics and their out-of-country sourcing, which possibly could be a problem in future years, and the base which is an extra cost, and is lighter in weight.

mountaintop · 10-14-2009, 10:44 AM

My shop is only 20x20 and already packed with other toys and the Nova may have a smaller footprint. The Jet includes a stand so it is cheaper I guess. I like the tilt of the Nova and with a bad back some days I wonder if this maybe an plus. Do may of the Nova users use the tilt. I just watched a David Ellisworth video and he was turning on a Nova in the video so that has to be a plus if I was anywhere as good as David. I guess either one would be good.
One fellow at our wood turning meeting mentioned that people hated the Nova do to the fact that the drive spir is connected to the motor directly which can transfer the vibration compared to a pulley belt system in most. I have never seen this as an issue in the reviews I read

BobcatBob · 10-14-2009, 11:25 AM

I have the Jet 1642EVS 2 HP(230 v) model and love it. It comes on a skid in a couple of boxes and is quite heavy (400+ lbs I believe. In spite of the weight, I was able to get it together myself. I love the way it performs and the variable speed. As long as you are spending that much money, go with the variable speed; you won't be sorry. It has two variable speed settings, changed with a belt. I mostly keep mine on the higher speed because I can still slow it down to 200 if I need to. Hope this helps.

Bob

Douglas Robinson · 10-14-2009, 11:38 AM

I too have the Jet 1642EVS. Got it at Klingspor when there was a big Jet discountsale going on. I think I got $150 rebate from Jet and a 10% off from Klingspor. I have not had a single issue with this unit. It has done everythink I have asked and the variable speed is a MUST!

willarda · 10-15-2009, 07:43 PM

I have the Delta 1642. A great lathe. It has a Baldour motor, 24 position indexing head, and both the head and tailstock can be positioned. As well, the headstock can be rotated for larger bowl turning. It has an electronic variable speed system. I got this from the Klingspoor Woodworking Show about 4 or 5 years ago when the lathe was first released. I am totally happy with it. The frame is solid steel, not pressed metal and the ways are very heavy duty. Well worth the money. I wanted something above the generic Asian lathes, but could not justify a General or a OneWay.