HF 34706 Lathe - Toasted

[wassaw998]

My pretty new HF 34706 lathe's motor gave out on me this weekend. Started to make a lot of noise, seemed to be a bearing, not really sure, then smelling like something burning, then, smoking. Tried to fiddle with it, but when it started puffing smoke I figured I'd call 'em up since it was so new. The motor was super hot, I actually have a pretty nasty burn on my arm I got when taking things appart and accidently touched my arm to the motor.

In a few hours I was setting up a new one, they do have good cust service, will give 'em credit for that. I am a bit concerned now, thinking the new one is gona burn out again, maybe I just had a lemon. Don't think I've ever read of anyone saying their motor burned out. Thinking maybe I should have gotten a better quality lathe up front now....[?]

[mudder]

You may have had a case of "infant mortality" I have heard of it happening from every lathe manufacturer. I have no personal experience with the HF lathe but several folks give it good marks.
Hope youe second one gives you many years of good service.

[gerti]

I've had my HF 34706 lathe going on 2 years now, no problems with the motor.

[messmaker]

I have a couple HF machines and no motor problems. I only remember one other post of a blown motor and it was on a tablesaw.[8D]

[Hal4son]

I've had the same lathe now for 2.5 yrs and no motor problems. Now then, if I can ever get some time off from the yard make-over I might be able to get some things turned....sigh! It's just too durn hot to work in the yard these days, but plants need to be dug out, new ones dug in, garden rototilled with new topsoil, the list goes on...

[wassaw998]

Good to hear the re-assurance. I was very happy with the lathe, and have recommended it to serveral folks. Hopefully the new one won't give me any issues. I do notice that the motor runs pretty hot as it is. Guess that is normal.