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Getting a New Mustard or Bare VL300

C

CBSears

Joined
Jan 2, 2009
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N. E. Pennsylvania
Folks, after much hinting (begging and other self-degrading activities) LOML has finally agreed that I could (should) upgrade to a full-sized lathe - primarily for bowl and hollow-form turning. 😀

My early thinking had been to build-out a bare-bones Vicmarc 300 short bed (welded steel stand, 3 HP motor, VFD, outboard turning fixture, and full-function remote. Based on research, the all-in price would have been around $3,500.) I particularly liked the notion of a remote so I can control everything from the right side of the lathe AND not have to reach round the workpiece to shut off the lathe when something goes wrong!

While that is still an option, after talking to several Mustard owners, reading through comments on this and other forums, turning on a Mustard, and speaking with Joe at Osolnik Machinery, it looks like the yellow monster might be a more practical solution - at least for me. I know WMH sells a remote on/off switch that is probably OK, but before I go that route, let me ask: has anyone thought about moving the three-switch control panel from the PM headstock to a separate remote box? Since the VFD is already programmed to accept remote inputs (albeit from only a few inches away), this looks like a pretty simple modification. Basically, move the panel to a separate box, run 5 - 6 feet of CAT-5e or -6 cable to the drive in place of the existing connections, cover the hole left behind in the headstock, put a rare earth magnet on the remote box, and it's done.

I'm sure WMH would take a dim view of this travesty but, like re-programming the drive to let the motor run at a lower speed, the drive manufacturer could also provide input.

Thoughts?
 
Somebody just did that to a Jet 1642, put the controls in a waterproof grey box, I believe, with magnets on the back I think. Circuitry is the same, should work fine, with low voltage cable, like for thermostats.

Maybe over on Sawmill Creek.
 
a remote switch is a great investment on any lathe.
even it it is just an in line switch on the power cord used for emergency off.

Price/performance you'll do better on the Powermatic. Since you haven't seen a clear advantage to the Vicmarc go for the powermatic. If you can, get some first hand experience by taking a class where you can use the bigger lathes for a week. Come to the AAW sympsoium you can see the machines up close.

If a few years down the line you "need" the advantages of another machine you can sell the Powermatic for $3-$500 less than the new cost at the time you sell it.

Anyone who bought a powermatic at $2200 a few years ago can probably sell it for $2200 it today and have people standing in line.
This is pretty much true of most any quality Lathe.

happy turning,
Al
 
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When I got my Mustard a few months ago, I researched various remote switch options as I continued using the lathe. After a while I stopped looking into remotes. Found I didn't need one.

I bought my Mustard because of the sliding headstock. Between that and the variable speed, I'm now completely dependent on these 2 options.

You can have a Mustard delivered to your door for $3000 from ToolNut. If you opt to pick it up at the terminal or a "commercial" location, you will save anywhere from $80 to $150.

It comes with free shipping, an 18" extension and extension tool rest. I think this is the absolute best dollar-for-dollar lathe on the market, but as you can see, I'm a bit biased.

Burt
 
Thank you for your thoughts, guys. Al's point about resale wasn't something I had thought about. Great catch.

I have been lucky enough to turn on both machines - as well as on a big Oneway. I did not see a lot of difference between the Vic and the Oneway, except price. That said: the Mustard is a compelling value proposition - especially with the economy the way it is. I'll let you know how it turns out.
 
I have the 3520B and the remote switch that PM makes to go with it, and I wouldn't want another lathe without one. The switch itself is of poor quality; I had two of them stop working within the first 8 months or so of ownership. I've since replaced it with a pull-on/push-off switch from a marine supply shop (mounted in the PM magnetic box) and it's been great. It's an improvement in safety, but also a big additional convenience.

I think moving the speed control and power switch to a remote box would be pretty simple if you're familiar with wiring pots and switches. You could also make a duplicate control panel (while leaving the original in place) and set up an A/B switch to choose between the headstock or remote control panels. Wiring a duplicate control panel and having both panels "live" at the same time would be trickier, at least for me, since I'm not sure how to use two pots to control a single voltage circuit. Of course, I'm pretty sure any of this would void the warranty, but the panel's definitely not rocket science hard to figure out.

And I'll put in a plug for Joe Osolnik. I was very happy with my purchasing experience from him.

Whichever lathe and supplier you end up choosing, I suspect you're gonna love your new lathe.
 
I also purchased a 3520B from Osolnik. I've had a Jet1236 for ~15yrs and been dreaming about a Oneway for the last 5-10yrs. I started getting real serious about making a purchase last fall and quickly my Oneway dream widened to a Robust. After more looking and lots of reading I decided on the PM due to the fact is was half the price of the Robust (or Oneway). Like someone else mentioned I figure the resale will be good if I ever decide to further upgrade - but doubt I'll ever get to that point.

Lots of pro's and con's, but one of mine also was the remote switch on PM vs full remote controls. I toyed with the thought of building a full remote like you're thinking about but after having the lathe for a month or so don't think I'll bother. I use the remote switch ALL of the time, but don't need to change speed that often and don't find it a bother to reach over when I do.

Good luck with your decision, I'm pretty sure you'll be happy with whatever you decide.

BTW - My PM developed a 'clicking' after about 8hrs of turning, after trying everything PM sent out a technician a couple of weeks ago...he's scheduled to be here tomorrow at 8am to install a new motor.
 
First I love my 3520A (with somemods that make it more like a B) Had it for quite a few years and it has beenflawless - I really can't see justifying another lathe purchase

I am curious about one thing - you mention slowing it down? I dont understand the need - mine runs plenty slow when needed

Can you elaborate?

Thanks

Robert
 
Wipedout said:
First I love my 3520A (with somemods that make it more like a B) Had it for quite a few years and it has beenflawless - I really can't see justifying another lathe purchase

I am curious about one thing - you mention slowing it down? I dont understand the need - mine runs plenty slow when needed

Can you elaborate?

Thanks

Robert
Click to expand...

Robert,

The idea of slowing the motor down was intended as more of an illustrative example than a real need at this point. I simply used it because I have seen some conversation in that regard coming from some "B" owners - although the "A" owners who responded seem to have reactions similar to yours... That said: I don't know enough at this point to comment.

Beyond that, I hope to place the order later today or tomorrow.

Everyone's thoughts are much appreciated!
 
Guys,

As a follow-up to the last post, I ordered a new 3520b from Osolnick earlier today. Joe is supposed to call early next week with shipping info, but so far the purchase experience has been all I could ask for.

Now I guess my faithful 1220 Jet can go on the market....
 
Pm 3520

I bought my 3520 from Joe about 1.5 years ago, and it was a smooth, clean, and professional experience. I doubt you'll have any problems; but if you do, Joe will take care of them for you! Enjoy! BTW, check this out for setup:http://mustardmonster.googlepages.com/. Look for the setup section.
 
CBSears said:
Guys,

As a follow-up to the last post, I ordered a new 3520b from Osolnick earlier today. Joe is supposed to call early next week with shipping info, but so far the purchase experience has been all I could ask for.

Now I guess my faithful 1220 Jet can go on the market....
Click to expand...

If you have the room in your shop I'm suggesting you keep the 1220. Before my 3520B I started out with a HF 34706. It is now a trusty, well used Beall buffing station. I wouldn't consider selling it or my 3520B. Green and mustard work well together.

Stoppy
 
Thanks for the feedback, guys. I'm pretty excited about the possibilities the new mustard opens up. I have several projects in mind... Notwithstanding, I have scoured the mustardmonster site pretty thoroughly and will definitely pay attention to the setup. No sense damaging an expensive piece equipment before it even gets dirty.

Also, my shop space is pretty limited, but Jim makes a good point about getting rid of something that works well. Lots to think about....
 
Powermatic 3520

Woodcraft sale on all Powermatic and Jet tools May 15&16, 20% 0ff, most stores are already pre selling and that puts the 3520 at $2700 plus change
 
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