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Jet 1642evs 1.5 hp versus 2 hp

P

Paul Singer

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Nov 30, 2009
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Looking at getting a Jet 1642EVS lathe and wondered if anyone that bought the 1.5 horsepower unit ever had a problem with power. There is close to a $300 dollar price difference and I am not sure I really will need the extra power the 2 horsepower unit would provide.
 
I did one demo on the Jet with the 1.5 hp motor and found the power to be lacking. I had a PM for 8 years (2 hp) and now have a Robust with 3 hp. As a production turner, I need the extra power. The 1.5 hp is a nice lathe, but not for production work where time is money.

robo hippy
 
Paul,

have you eliminated the G0698 from your consideration? It is 2 hp. and I remember some of your posts inquiring about it.

The one I got has really performed well, and I know the Jet has a longer track record, and some were apprehensive about the "hunt" below 100 rpm. I understand the PM 3520b's are programmed to shut off at 50 rpm now, and I have not seen this as anything other than a very minor difference.

I think you will like the Jet, and I believe it is a good machine, as I also feel the G0698 is a good machine as well. I decided on it because the features matched up well with the Jet and PM and it had 2" more swing and longer distance between centers than the Jet 1642.

Whatever you decide on, I hope you will be happy, but the programming on the Grizz inverter is simply their specs, and is not a problem or a design flaw in my opinion. Good luck! 🙂
 
Roger,

I have yet to make the final decision but one of the negatives about the Grizzly was the availability. Last I heard was June and then when the ToolNut announced a sale the price got a little closer. So I am still up in the air a little and have a week to make my choice. I may still call Grizzly and see if that June date has improved or maybe got worse. As it is there is a $300 price difference now between the Grizzly and the Jet. Hard choices.

Thanks for your help in the past.

Paul
 
waltben said:
One of my clubs has a 1.5 out of choice (we've only 115v power available), but I've been told by a member that if wired for 230v, it works reasonably well. Two other members have the 2hp and like it very well.
Click to expand...

Changing to 240 VAC will make no difference. The input voltage is converted to a fixed DC voltage by a converter in the controller that is the same whether operating from 120 or 240 VAC. After that, the DC voltage is converted to three phase PWM (pulse width modulated) output to the motor. The only difference between one supply voltage over the other is the "warm fuzzy" factor.
 
Am sure that many folks with the 1.5 are well satisfied with their lathes. I got the 2 just so I would never have to wonder if I shouldagot the 2. Strictly a psychological decision in my case. Minimum speed is a smooth 50 rpm.
 
I have had a 1.5 for 2 yrs. I am totally happy with the power BUT I do not turn bowls that weigh 75 lbs and are off center.. I suppose it might really have to do with what YOU turn & plan to turn. I also keep my tools sharp and have a very light hand..therefore I don't even bog down a jet mini...may have more to do with HOW one works than the horsepower.
 
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