Simat 101 or Flexispeed lathe....I have to choose

I've had a Flexispeed large for years but recently a Simat 101 lathe cane available near me. I thought I would be able to mix and match but find the spindle is different (well the nose thread). So I now have to choose which one to get rid of. The Flexispeed uses oil for the main bearings while the Simat has grease filled fittings...not sure if they were a later feature or a modification. Anyone out there with experience of both.....and offer advice.

My Simat is oil fed, rather than grease.
Are you sure someone hasn't just drilled out the holes and added oil nipple like on a Myford.

How about making a nose adaptor for one lathe or the other, or if you have access to a larger lathe, maybe make a new spindle for one of them to match the other.

Bill

Plain bearings generally need oil lube whereas rolling bearings (ball, taper roller or needle) can use either.

Compare wheel bearings on vehicles - they can go for 100,000 miles without trouble..

Some Flexispeed lathes - but not all - were serial numbered and had a hand finished bed - if your Flexispeed is one of these it might be worth keeping.

The one that's in best condition! On paper the Simat looks like a refined Flexispeed, which is good, but not if the Simat's bearings have been damaged by being worked on grease. Buying second-hand we always risk being punished for the sins of previous owners!

Dave