Hello all,

I keep ending up back at the forum as part of my lengthy googling sessions, so I figured it was about time that I actually introduced myself and asked for some help from the collective wisdom of the membership.

My situation is this. I bought an SX2P from ARC almost exactly a year ago. I have really enjoyed learning with it, but I think the time has come for a step up in both capacity and grunt. I don't need anything too massive as I don't really have the space (nor in reality, the budget) so I'm probably still sticking to the realms of the benchtop models. For reference, my lathe is a 4 1/2" Boxford Model A and that has never been found wanting for capacity. I've mainly been producing a variety of model components and a few vehicle parts as required.

I would prefer to stay with the R8 spindle and I like the flexibility and ease afforded by variable speed control rather than playing around with belts and pulleys – the Boxford affords me that pleasure in spades until I eventually succumb to the temptation of a VFD. It also means that I'm well versed in the pros/cons of Chinese-sourced machines vs old English iron.

My online research keeps coming back to Warco's WM16B / WM18B or ARC's SX2.7 / SX3. I have had good experiences with both companies in the past.

With the Warcos, the 18 is the only one with the R8 and is a significantly heftier machine, probably at the limit of what I can accommodate.

With the Siegs, although the SX3 is a more substantial machine, I really like the idea of the tapered gibs and the slightly more "modern" approach of the smaller SX2.7.

I feel like I am heading towards the SX2.7, however my hesitation is that I may find myself in a similar situation in 12 months time, looking to trade up to the bigger machines. If this is the case perhaps the WM18B might be the better option – although I might have to hire an engine crane to move it!

Any pointers or advice you are able to give would be most appreciated. Have I perhaps overlooked an option that might tick all the boxes?

Thanks!

Thanks both, that's really insightful.

From the ARC website, I believe the SX3 has a tilting head, the same as the WM18B, its Warco "equivalent". The latter appears to have a bigger table and more travel though, as well as a more powerful motor.

Much to choose between them or is it a case of too close to call and down to preferred colour?

Again, many thanks.

The WM18B in R8 certainly looks to be a contender. Will need to get the tape measure out to confirm that I have the space!

Have just looked at a video of the WM18B and belt change appears to be a bit of a faff involving loosening the motor mount with a socket spanner and re-tensioning once the belt is in the new position. Suppose I probably wouldn’t need to be doing it that often but it’s not the most elegant of arrangements. Makes the boxford’s lever arrangement look quite simple by comparison!

It’s the price to be paid for the speed range available I guess.

It's one of these:

Link

It's essentially an SX2 built to ARC's specification.

A very capable bit of kit for its size. I've been very happy with it.

Thanks for the heads up Stuart!