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Jet 1220 VS

Joined
Nov 27, 2004
Messages
179
Likes
1
Location
Ephrata, Pa
Does anyone have this model or have used this model Jet Lathe?
Does it have reverse? I checked Jet's web site and it doesn't say.
Pro's - Con's any info would be helpful.
I'm teaching a new-be and he wants to get his own lathe.
Thank you, Jim
 
Unless this is a very new release, the 1220 has belt changes to change speeds and a single direction.

The 1014 has variable speed. Mine did not come with a reversing switch, but a double pole double throw switch fixes that (radio shack). One has to have the lathe off to change from forward to reverse unlike some of the more costly lathes.
 
I have the Jet 1220 and it is a VS model but has three speed ranges moving the belt on 3 pullies. It doesn't have reverse. I would look at the Delta 46-460 which has a bigger motor, VS and has reverse. I wish this unit had been out when I bought the Jet I probably would have went with the Delta.
 
I have a 1220 VS which has 7 pulleys I think, and a 1 hp DC motor. I was surprised by how much torque it has. I haven't checked out the comparable Delta. I use the Jet for turning boxes. It does not have a reverse, and I can't think of any reason why it doesn't, and as far as I am concerned, it should have reverse. It is a feature I have come to rely on. Have a Robust for the big stuff.

robo hippy
 
I have both the 1220 VS and the Delta 46-460. The Jet has six pulley positions and the Delta three. The Jet is ¾ HP without reversing and the Delta is 1 HP with reversing. Both are very nice lathes and I'm keeping both.
 
Unless this is a very new release, the 1220 has belt changes to change speeds and a single direction.

The 1014 has variable speed. Mine did not come with a reversing switch, but a double pole double throw switch fixes that (radio shack). One has to have the lathe off to change from forward to reverse unlike some of the more costly lathes.

Can this switch be used to reverse any motor? roughly how much does it cost?
 
Maybe it's just me but I've had the same problem with both the Jet 12/20 and the mini. The lock down on the tail stock doesn't hold without lock tite. The threaded shaft isn't long enough for the lock nut to get a good bite. In other words the shaft isn't long enough for the lock nut to go on far enough to capture the nylon in the lock nut. Maybe I'm doing something wrong.

Dave F.
 
Not any motor can be reversed. DC motors can by simple reversing the leads. All of the 3 phase motors that I've seen that have Variable Frequency Drives can but I don't know if all 3 phase motors can be reversed.
 
Motor reversing on DC motors is pretty simple -- (this does not work on AC motors!!! Special control systems or special designs needed to reverse AC motors)

Reference with photos: http://www.sherline.com/reverse.htm

(this is for the sherline dc variable speed motor - Radio Shack no longer carries that part number, but the picture works universally - as does the voiding of warranty --)

Looked to see if I had a spare switch - negative -- memory is a 6 amp double pole double throw switch - avoid the lighter rated switches and go for larger if available.

This is not an interlocked system!!! if you throw this switch into reverse while under power and turning, you will create smoke. (I can do that on the VFD on my Stubby, but that is a different system).

I like reverse on the small VS lathes for sanding!!!

Ken in Juneau
 
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While perusing Woodturning Online, I came across a pdf by Mack DeBose titled "Reversing Switch for Variable Speed Jet Mini Lathe" from the GulfCoastWoodturners site and saved a copy for future reference. There's also electrical drawings and Parts Lists at the back of the Manual.

Between that and kenvalaska's link, it ought to be a fairly foolproof mod, but do heed the warnings about stopping rotation before changing direction, securing the chuck, and warranty.

My Jet 1220VS (bought new) has a 6-step pulley system and a 3/4 hp motor, but I'd suggest relying on what Jet describes in their own specs. Remember to check Parts Lists for details not covered elsewhere.
 
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