Colchester Student Mk2 or 1800

Hi all,

I'm new to the forum but was hoping someone might be able to help me. I apologise in advance if this thread is in the wrong place.

I am about to purchase a lathe and am considering either a Colchester Student Mk2 or an 1800. Does anyone has any experience with any of these lathes? I appreciate the 1800 does not have a T-slotted Crosslide which was the main reason I was being drawn towards the Mk2. However am I missing an important point as to why I should go with an 1800 as they seem to be commanding a higher price then the Mk2? I also realise the 1800 is newer. As i'm sure you've gathered I am undecided onto which I should go with.

P.S. In regards to what I will be turning, I tend to turn a variety of things and not any one thing in specific but I know the Student would be large enough.

I look forward to hearing your suggestions.

Many Thanks

Luke

Hi there

You should easily be able to fit a Tee slotted sub table to the back of the cheaper lathe. I expect you could clamp it on rather than drilling and tapping the cross slide.

I have seen this done in industry to take a back tool post.

regards david

Hi Luke,

Welcome to the forum. I have no experience of using these lathes but they have a good reputation.

Have you discovered **LINK** they have lots of information you may find useful for Colchester machines here: **LINK**

Neil

Both are great machines if you have the space. The cross slide on the 1800 has vee slots each side to take accessories if you want. But you don't need rear mounted parting tools with an 1800! I would go for the best ways and general condition. Be prepaired that some bits like fixed and traveling rests don't come cheap but the satisfaction of using a big industrial machine is something to be enjoyed over a long time.

The reason for the price is simple, they are that good. You might find a Harrison as another option.

Billy.

Hi all,

Many Thanks for the replies, Neil yes I have discovered that website, its very informative

Thanks for the info Billy its good to know what others think. Its a good idea about the T-slotted table David, thanks for bringing it to my attention.

Regards

Luke

Luke,

I would approach with a bit of caution. A 1800 could be at least 27 years old and Colchester's wear out just as any other machine tool. If it's had a hard life it's fit for scrap, a good one would make a nice purchase though. It all depends on price, condition and what you want to make with it.

Of the two models mentioned, buy the one in the best condition.

If you need spares from 600 Group they are VERY expensive.

If you can get the serial number 600 Group should be able to tell you how old it is, a good dealer may well have done this for you.

Cheers

John

Edited By elanman on 02/03/2013 16:09:47

When buying a used Colchester, be very wary of the carriage gearbox.

Often, they fill up with soluble oil and the gears rust away.

Make sure all works before you purchase.

regards David