Question for Leehljp (Hank)

[DonHo]

I saw your answer to a post over on penturners.org that you installed a PSI motor and VS controller on your Rikon. I have the Rikon and would like to do the same, were they any problems with installing the kit and does the PSI motor have as much power as the Rikon?

I posted over here because I didn't want to hi-jack the thread over there,
Thanks,
DonHo

[TB Roye]

Will it work on a Delta, it would be nice to change speen with out having to move the belts all the time.

Tom

[Hoover]

Will it work on a Delta, it would be nice to change speen with out having to move the belts all the time.

Tom

If this is the model listed by DonHo, it is supposed to fit the Delta.

http://www.pennstateind.com/store/TCLVSKIT.html

[TB Roye]

Hover

Thanks for the link. I will look into it. I like my Delta but there are time especially when applying finish that the variable speed would be nice. Cheaper that $300-500 for a new lathe.

Tom

[leehljp]

4 Part Answer:

1. I did not use the mounting plate that came with it. Instead, I used the original plate and drilled new holes to accept the new motor. The plate that came with the motor places the motor off center from being directly below the top pulley; therefore, I had to use the plate that came with the Rikon and drill holes for the new motor.

2. Of course the original switch does not work and I had to cut the wiring, but left it is a state that I could use the original switch if I ever decided to put the original motor back on (in case I decided to sell it and keep the VS unit.)

3. I used the original pulleys instead of the 3 step pulley that came with the VS motor. I had to drill it out all the way through to get it to fit, but it works. This actually works like the VS on the Jet in that while you have a VS machine, you can still adjust the belts.

For me, I was a little bit disappointed in the total range of the VS but I put the belt into a range that is works well enough for me for slow speed and high speed on pens without having to change a belt at all on a pen.

4. Power: It does have what seems about like 1/3 less power, but for pens, that is no problem. If I were to be turning 10 - 12 inch bowls, it would probably be a tad on the weak side, but I have not turned any bowls yet. I do have some blocks that I intend to turn.

Hope this helps. If you have any more questions regarding what I wrote above, just ask and I will answer what I can.

[DonHo]

Thanks for the reply. Since I turn more bowls than pens I think I'll give it a pass for now because I don't think I can give up any power and still turn large bowls. Maybe someday I'll either figure a way to work in a larger VS lathe OR a rich uncle I don't know about may leave me scads of money so space or a new lathe won't be a problem

DonHo