Jet vs PM (vs Delta?)

[Caniac]

I am looking to upgrade my delta 1440 to an EVS model with a bit more HP and swing. I have been looking awfully hard at the PM3520 and the 2HP Jet 1642- I can get a decent deal on either ($2380 vs $1900 respectively- no shipping or sales tax) and LOML has ok'd the purchase- just have to make a choice. I also know delta has a EVS steel-frame model in this price range (my local chapter uses it for meetings/demos), but I haven't been looking hard at that model- should I?

I've seen both in person, but haven't been able to watch them in action. It seems to me that the Jet has more features (spindle lock, indexing, longer spindle capability) but the PM seems a little more, well, solid. The lack of indexing or a SL is a minor concern, but I'm more wondering if the <36" spindle length will come into play in the future. Both motors are rated at 2HP- but are they created equal?

So many questions, so little real information. I was hoping some of you might be able to help me clear the mud, so to speak. Any advice, suggestions, or differences I've failed to see are greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your help!

 

[john lucas]

Jeff
Go with the Powermatic. The mass makes all the difference in the world. You can rig indexing pretty easily and if you ever need longer than 36" which almost no one does, you can get a bed extension for about $175. I'm one of the rare ones who needs a longer bed so I bought it.
If you don't mind waiting a little longer a 2035b is coming out shortly that has indexing and a few other nice features that I can't remember.
I've turned on the Jet 16 and like it but it's just not as smooth with out of balance work as the Powermatic.

 

[Brodie Brickey]

Unless I'm mistaken, the Jet version you're looking at has a 16" swing. If so, go with the Powermatic. The Powermatic has a 20" swing. It does require 220 single phase, but if you've got that running you're all set. The thread size will change to 1 1/4" x 8 TPI so you're inserts on the chuck have to change. If you don't have inserts on you're chuck you may want to factor those costs into the change, but if that's not a problem, then get the Powermatic. The fit & finish is much better than the Delta or Jet.

Brodie

 

[TurnedAround]

Hands down, PM

I'm glad I went with the PM3520a. Extra swing and power make all the difference. Believe me, there will come a time when you will want that extra four inches. I had a jet 1236 and craved the Jet 1642. Now I know that if I had gotten the 1642, I would be craving the PM3520.

 

[arbud]

Conventional wisdom

The "conventional wisdom" gleaned from numerous sites for a couple of years is as follows: The best "bangs for the buck" are 1. powermatic 2. vicmarc, 3. vega, 4. oneway.

 

[Caniac]

Thanks all for the input. Seems as if there is a trend... :cool2:

Definately has me leaning toward the mustard machine. Thanks again.

 

[spinsdawood]

The PM is a true variable speed 0 to 3200 rpm. It is also reversible by simply flicking a switch. I have had my 3520 over 2 yrs and noway would I trade it for ANYTHING! The powerhead slides the full length of the bed. There is a bed extension available as well as an indexing kit. There is no "perfect lathe as each has his own goals and personality , but I feel the 3520 is the most versatile all around machine. Good luck,
Jim 🙂

 

[bbrussell]

I recently upgraded from a Delt 1440. Like you, I looked at both the 16" Jet and the 20" Powermatic. The Jet is the Powematic's little brother. I went with the Powermatic bigger and heavier, and could not be happier. The PM does have a spindle lock that must be held in place, simply remove the bottom screw and losen the top screw on the guard, then push in the spindle lock button and rotate the guard to hold it in place.