Small Lathe experiences wanted

[Noddy]

I'm a Brit, working in South Africa (month on fortnight home). My ML7 and quorn kit are gathering dust in my old man's garage.

When I'm over here, I'm on the road a lot, so I'm thinking of getting something like an Emco unimat 4 or clone, together with milling attachment, that I can put in the bakkie (pickup) and take with me to usein the evenings.

Does anyone have any experience with current production small lathes?

Are they capable of reasonable metal removal, or would they be limited to turning the knobs?

Does anyone know of a half decent South African dealer

also anyone in Kwa Zulu Natal who has built a quorn and wouldn't mind sharing experiences diasters and sob stories?

[Ansty]

Keith

I own a Unimat 3 and have had it for a number of years. It's ideal for small fittings etc.
I have also managed to turn up a couple of sets of 3.5G Tich wheel sets. This would seem to me to be the most that could be expected of a small lathe of this size. I know some have managed larger jobs but they must have more patience than I have.
If all you want to do is small work below 3.5G then the small lathe might suit.

Best of luck

Brian

[steamingon]

You should Google or check Yahoo user groups for "7x10" if you are considering one of these lathes. There is a lot of information on the ability and problems of these China imports on the web. Several personal sites have upgrade details and instructions. It is a little heavy to carry around at 88 lbs. You may also want to check if there is a Yahoo group for Unimat.

[Noddy]

Thanks Guys, I'll check out the Yahoo group.