10-15-2018, 12:38 PM
I don't know how much you have budgeted for the conversion and I want to encourage you to leave the SB in its original form. Given the rpm limitation of the spindle I really don't think you'll be happy with the end result. Keep it as a one off or 2nd operation machine and find a more modern lathe with much higher spindle speeds to convert or a small CNC lathe in need of TLC/restoration. You do not indicate were you are in the US which makes it difficult to give advice on where to look. I recommend talking to your instructors and see if they have any ideas. One possibility is HGR Surplus near Cleveland Ohio. Keep in mind most of their offerings are in need of complete rebuilds. Other possibilities include state & federal auctions. Look for equipment surplussed by schools, especially post secondary schools and machines from research/prototype labs.