JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase

Reviews of JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase

1.) A Lathe For All Seasons
Reviewed by: The Noh Hare™ Warren, MI USA
Rating:
Buying a lathe it one of the hardest decisions you will make in putting a shop together. The possibilities are endless, and, as you move up the price curve the cost of a misjudgment can get terrifying. Unless you are willing to settle for a mini-lathe (Jet makes several good lathes in that category as well) the bigger a lathe you can buy (up to a limit) the happier you will be in the long run.

The 1642, right in the middle of the price range can turn up to a 16" inch diameter bowl and up to 40+ inches in length - in other words, a small log - is one possibility you should seriously consider. At 400+ pounds it is solid enough to dampen vibration without taking a crew to assemble or move it. With a 1-1/2 horsepower motor it has enough power to do just about everything you might want to do.

Spindle speed is controlled by a two-position belt drive (0 - 1700 rpm or 0 - 3200 rpm) and is continuously variable over those ranges. While variable speed isn't a necessity, it's amazing how quickly you learn to depend on the ability to change speed as you turn. This is a superior piece of equipment and to get something better you would have to spend at least twice as much.

There are exactly two things I don't like about this lathe. One is trivial, I would have likes an optional hand turning wheel instead of having to grab a cylindrical turning bar to turn the work about manually. This is only a problem with pieces that are too small to grab onto - like pen mandrels. The other issue is that, to turn a bowl over 16" you have to run the head to the other end of the lathe, rather than turn it in place. This means the lathe takes up a bit more space and is slightly less convenient. But if you are working in that size range you probably should be looking at a more specialized tool.

I would rate this a best buy for the amateur through semi-professional woodshop. I've been using one for a while now, and I've had no reason to regret the decision. Keep in mind that, whatever lathe you buy, your next really big expense will be equipping it with all the neat gadgets that make woodturning a world of it's own.

2.) Cadillac of Lathes
Reviewed by: J. Schofield Moosic, PA USA
Rating:
Jet really thought of everything on this lathe. I previously had a 1/2 HP lathe with turning headstock and one of those cheap stands they typically come with. This thing is HEAVY. The stand is basically two sets of cast iron legs that weigh quite a bit all by themselves. The features on this lathe make it a pleasure to use. The variable speed is simply a dial that works like one of those pushbutton/turning light switches so you can dial in any speed you like. The electronic readout is really neat too. It also has forward/reverse so you can reverse the direction for sanding.

If you're in the market for a lathe, don't opt for the cheap solution like I originally did. If you're going to get a lathe, get a good one like this one. The features it has and its convienences allow you to get better and better at the lathe over time instead of fighting the equipment. You will end up needing a little more than 1/2 HP over time. This lathe rivals ANY of those costing much more. The only way I wouldn't seriously consider this lathe was if I were going to do many large bowls.

It never has failed to do anything I asked it to do and I've had it for about 1 year now.



3.) The right choice for me
Reviewed by: solar power pioneer & educator Santa Fe, NM USA
Rating:
I studied specifications and reviews of all the lathes in this size range before choosing the 1642. I use more expensive lathes at the community college, but I like this better. The sliding head lets me do end-work and hollowing without leaning way over the bed. It's heavy enough for an intermediate-level turner like me, but nicer to dance with than a heavy machine. The tool rest is easier to slide precisely, and I can move the tailstock off and on without a backache.

Everything is well designed and fits and works smoothly. No part feels cheap. The AC variable speed motor is first-class. The controls are big and handy, especially the OFF button (which you pull to start the motor). Switch to reverse to sand in either direction.

I even like the cylindrical handwheel. I find it easier to grab than the conventional kind. Anyway, you won't need it to slow the work down because electric braking brings it smoothly to a halt. What a delight!

To learn more about this machine, read reviews of the 230V version (only the motor differs). You'll see more 5-stars, and get some tips from users.

I was surprised that it came with the same safety guard as the Powermatic 3520 (its big brother, same manufacturer). The tool rack is VERY handy. It even came with a versatile Oneway-clone revolving center. This lathe is a great value, discounted or not.

4.) What a Relief !
Reviewed by: Dr. Peter G. Bradt Grass Valley, CA
Rating:
After fighting a Grizzly lathe for months, I unloaded it on the next sucker ( Sorry, but it was cheap... and inexpensive, too ). The Jet lathe arrived in good condition via ABF who took forever to deliver it. It is heavy, but one person can easily assemble it with a hand cart and a pair of saw horses. Beautifully built. Everything goes together without any adjustments or rebuilding. The true variable speed is a joy to use. The sliding head stock makes bowl turning feasible for left-handers. If you are going to use a lathe, hock the family silver and consider this one.

5.) GREAT. The best lathe on the market.
Reviewed by: Leslie P. Hawley New Port Richey, Fl United States
Rating:
If you are in the market for a HIGH QUALITY first rate lathe, this is it.
More than a hobby lathe, this is a first rate production tool. I decided to try running it on 110 volts before changing over to 220, that was 3 months ago and I see no need to convert. The lathe easily turns a 15 inch by 10 inch thick WET cherry blank ( 52 lbs ) without a single slow down or problem. I invested several long days of research before ordering this lathe, and I would not ever consider anything other than a JET LATHE.

6.) Serious wood turner.
Reviewed by: wood worker Hunt. Bch Ca.
Rating:
After owning the Jet 1236 ( a very good Lathe for the money) I new after just a few monts I would need a bigger and more powerful Lathe. Of course my 1st choice was the Oneway but ofcourse the price stopped me. I actually purchased the Powermatic 2035 (I think thet is the #) but cancled it after talking to a technical support person at WMH tool group. The main 2 diferences between the Jet and the Powermatic is that the Powermatic has 3 bearings (compared to 2 in the Jet) in the head stock and much more Cast in the headstock. I decided I could live with out those features and save a Grand in doing so. I have no regrets the Jet1642 Rocks baby. I turn alot of Manzanita sometimes peices weighing in at 40 lbs when 1st chucked. It has the power to turn big peices. 1 1/2 HP I think is the perfect HP especially when a serious catch occurs. A 5 HP could cause serious injury. And as anyone knows who turns large peices of Manzanita a serious catch is a reality. The Variable speed is wonderfull as is the reverse. I love this Lathe.

7.) Solid Quality
Reviewed by: Jess Montana
Rating:
I have only had this lathe for a few days, but I already know I'll be using it a lot more than I ever used old Craftsmen, and with considerably more pleasure. Having not had a lathe this sturdy with the smooth variable speed and power, I am pleasantly surprised at how much faster and easier it is to work down a turning. The height is excellent, the head and tailstock are well-designed, as are all the controls.
Although the shipper was slow, it did arrive in great shape in one box on a sturdy wood base. I was able to set it up unassisted using saw horses and a cable lift under a heavy-duty 8' step ladder, but I would certainly recommend at least one helper. I did have an anxious moment or two when I first plugged it into my nearest 20A GFCI receptacle; it tripped it almost immediately, and it did the same thing on another GFCI. Suspecting it was related to the inverter/variable speed electronics, rather than a real problem, I plugged it into a regular 20A 115v circuit and it ran and continues to run just fine. My conversation with a Jet tech representative confirmed my suspicions. You may be surprised, as I was, that the lathe motor itself is actually 3 phase, 230 volts, and that a pretty sophisticated inverter/variable speed motor controller controls the whole setup with your more typical 1 phase, 115v input power.
In summary I think this is a very good piece of equipment.

8.) Great Lathe
Reviewed by: wood butcher northeast IL USA
Rating:
This lathe arrived, courtesy of free shipping, looking as if it had just been packed off the factory line. The delivery was flawless and certainly met all my expectations. The lathe assembled easily with a clear manual. I have been using the lathe for about one month now and have made several boxes, bowls, pens, and lathe tool handles. This was a move up for me from my shopsmith, which has been a great tool, but had too much runout/wobbble on the drive spindle. The faceplate that comes with this is huge and beefy, surely able to make the largest of bowls. The live center is the large cone shaped type - I purchased a smaller one more useful for pen mandrels and smaller spindle work. The belt changing is simple for speed control (although I only did it once to try it, I have had no need to change it otherwise; the speed control knob provides all the speed range I have actually needed). The machine is hefty, although I added the "sand" shelf discussed in the book to add an additional 150# for stability. While I have not worked on any other lathe than this and my shopsmith, I cannot figure out what could be missing for the average turner. This is my first Jet product, I am very pleased. I had to contact the headquarters for rebate info, and they (actual humans) were extremely helpful. I will come back to Jet for any other large tool purchases.

9.) Still impressed after a year
Reviewed by: Older and Wiser in Illinois Northwestern Illinois
Rating:
I had an old Craftsman lathe that I had bought used for turning rungs and spindles for occasional furniture repair. After I retired I wanted to get into turning bowls as a hobby so I wanted to replace my old lathe. After much research and the fact that I had bought other Jet tools and was impressed with them, I bought this Jet lathe. The set up was easy even for an old guy. Of course I needed help lifting the heavy pieces, but then again the weight of the lathe is one of it's good features. Everything lined up and fit perfectly. When I first turned it on I couldn't believe how quiet it was! It runs quite, vibration free and the speed control is a dream come true. I didn't have much experience or training in wood turning but after buying a few books and a video by Nick Cook I really got into it and my wife is running out of room for my "creations". I've had this lathe for over a year and I have not regretted buying this lathe and even enjoy bragging rights when my friend comes over to turn on my lathe and then goes home and uses his lathe just for sanding!

10.) Best machine I own
Reviewed by: Vincent Cooney Huntington Beach, Ca USA
Rating:
This 1642 lathe is the best machine in my shop. It's robust and quite, the tool rest and tail stock glide across the ways with no effort.
Putting it together was easy, but you should have someone help you when lifting the motor and head stock.

Vince

11.) Excellent Lathe - Get One!
Reviewed by: mikeinhampton VA USA
Rating:
Haven't had time to do anything but set-up the machine and make sure it works. I'll write more when I turn something on it. In my case, I could NOT have a GFCI in the line I hooked up this lathe on - with mine, something about the variable speed/inverter that blew the GCFI every time the machine was turned on - was advised about this on the woodworking forum, 'Sawmill Creek'. Turned out to be true, in my case. Also, before trying to remove the faceplate the thing comes with, be warned there are 2 set-screws holding it in place. Nice heavy duty machine, looking forward to years of use. Bye now.

12.) Great Lathe
Reviewed by: Dave Tucker Florence, Oregon
Rating:
I purchased this lathe because I already had the Jet 1014 and was happy with it except that I wanted a lathe with a larget swing and variable speed. I have now been using it for three months and have no complaints; it has met all of my expectations.

Delivery was prompt and the carrier courteously wheeled the pallet containing the lathe right into my garage shop. I started to assemble it myself but my wife let me know how foolish she thought I was being and held parts for me while I tightened bolts. Really, two persons are a good idea. Since the head stock slides off, the weight was reduced just enough to give me false confidence.

I have removed the wire mesh guard; most people work without one and I found it to interfere with my dust collection--that's a personal choice.

I would recommend this lathe for consideration by anyone looking for a lathe in this catagory.

13.) Jet 1642
Reviewed by: Steven Lewis Bakersfield, CA
Rating:
I have owned this lathe for over a year and have been more than pleased with it's performance. I purchased it at a woodworker's show so I eliminated shipping woes. It was easy to set up, but you will need three people. The electric variable speed control has a nice digital readout on the front of the headstock unlike the Delta 1642 which doesn't. The on/off switch is located on the headstock a feature I like. Wherever you have the headstock positioned on the lathe bed, the switch is right there with you. The switch also has an additional safety feature where if there is a power loss, the switch will have to be recycled before power is regained. Nothing worse than to have it start spinning if your not ready if power is reset. The index system is the only feature I'm not happy with. The three hole pin system is a burden to work with and they're not numbered. The Delta 1642's indexing system is numbered and easier to use. The Jet headstock is much beefier that the Delta. I mounted a large chunk of walnut and had no problems with vibrations or wobbles at low speeds under 800. Once the chunk was trued out, speeds over 800 were no problem just a slight wobble. I built a balast box and filled it with 300 lbs of sandbags and and it greatly improved the stability. The Jet legs are manufactured with brackets that will hold 2 x 4s which is the framework for my balast box. You can see the plans for it on www.woodcentral.com. I can slide the Headstock all the way to the end of the bed and turn bowls with no problem. Overall, I'm totally satisfied and I would recommend the Jet 1642 as a mid-size lathe selection over the Delta.

14.) Jet 1642EVS a gem
Reviewed by: Carl Savannah, Ga USA
Rating:
Have had my 1642 for about eight months now. During this time I have roughed about four hundred bowls and boxes and finished nearly one hundred. The most demand placed on the machine has been coring using the McNaughton/Kelton system.
I manage to muck up the spindle thread during installation and had to opportunity to test the really outstanding service support for the machine from WMH Tool Group!
I had help moving the disassembled machine from my driveway to my shop behind the house. A one ton chain hoist made machine assembly easy enough for a 72+ year old.
Before doing any serious turning I added a sand box to the machine with seven bags of 'play sand' to help stabilize the machine. The machine was leveled with a precision machinist level.
Initially I rejected the safety cage and left it hanging from the ceiling. While turning large winged bowls I was whacked in the hand more than once while reaching for the switch. Two adjustments were made to the machine, the safety cage was permanently installed on the machine and a safety kill switch was installed on the legs at the tailstock.
Nearly all of my turnings start out very wet and badly out of balance. Adjustable cushioned machine mounts from ENCO have replaced the four adjustable feet to dampen vibration somewhat.
While this machine is a huge step up from the fifteen inch Craftsman I had previously I regret that I failed to bite the bullet and buy the Powermatic 3520 with two horsepower. If one can find big wet wood, you need a big powerful lathe. In my case, the longest spindle turned has been shorter than the diameter of many of my bowls.
The sliding head is likely my favorite feature. Most of my work is done on the last foot of the bed. The headstock is moved left only for hollowing using Kelton or Jamieson systems.
The machine is outstanding for a 1 1/2HP sixteen inch swing machine. I regret only that I didn't step up to the 2HP twenty inch swing big brother from Powermatic.

15.) Jet 1642
Reviewed by: Ron
Rating:
Everything was as promised....on time and in excellent condition. Actually the delivery was faster than promised. They unloaded the lathe and put it just 4 feet from where I assemebled it. I love this unit, it has all of the things I wanted.

16.) JET LEMON
Reviewed by: David R. Kneller
Rating:
I have been having problems with my 1642 for the past 3 years. I have replaced all the bearing, spindle shaft and it still wont turn true. I have contacted the manufacturer and have gotten a run around every time I have called. When you are turning large bowls the 1-1/2 hp motor just cant handle it. If you are true craftmen and are doing accurate detail work I wouldn't sugesst buying the 1642. If you want quality customer service, do not buy the Jet 1642.

Features of JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase

Motor Voltage: 115V Horsepower: 1 1/2

Offering a one-inch swing over the bench and 42-inch capacity between centers, the JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase is ideal for home shop use. Boasting the versatility of a sliding headstock, electronic variable speed, and the necessary capacity for large projects, the JET JWL-1642EVS is a great lathe for beginning and serious craftspeople alike.

The JET JWL-1642EVS Woodworking Lathe offers: A 1-1/2HP, three phase, 115-volt motor 0 to 3,200 RPM variable speed operation for versatility A large-diameter spindle with a 1.25 x 8 threads-per-inch nose A cast-iron tool-rest base that's rigid, easy to position, and easy to lock A heavy-gauge wire guard for operator safety

The multi ball bearing live center and screw on cone attachment make turning projects with a center hole easier and safer.

The strong, three phase motor ennsures plenty of power for a wide range of projects.

The JWL-1642EVS delivers accuracy, capability, durability, and value. View larger.

The headstock can be positioned anywhere along the bed, including at the very end for turning large diameter blanks "off the bed."

The speed control knob provides precise control over rpm and keeps you informed with its large LED display.

Three-Phase Motor with Electronic Inverter for Powerful Performance
The JWL-1642EVS comes equipped with a 1-1/2HP, three phase, 115-volt motor for shops that do not have 220-volt power available. An electronic inverter does all the work to convert from the "1 phase" to "3 phase." The inverter also provides the ability to vary the frequency of the motor, which in turn allows for variable speed.

Cast-Iron Castings for Stability and Smooth Operation
Based on heavy-duty iron castings, the JWL-1642EVS provides long-term accuracy and smooth, vibration-free operation. Even the legs are made from an iron casting and include cast-in supports and adjustable pads at each foot to ensure a solid stance on uneven surfaces. With these legs, the spindle (center) height is a comfortable 44.5 inches above the floor.

The JWL-1642EVS headstock is also made from a massive iron casting that provides rigid support for the 1-1/2 HP, variable speed motor(0 to 3,200 RPM), and the high-strength spindle. After machining, the headstock is fitted with large diameter, high-quality ball bearings that support the precision-machined spindle for reliable performance.

Large-Diameter Spindle with Built-in Indexing for Drilling, Fluting, and More
The large-diameter spindle has a 1.25 x 8 threads-per-inch nose that supports the large chucks typically used with this type of lathe. Additionally, the outboard end of the spindle is fitted with a barrel-type grip for turning the spindle by hand. The spindle also has internal indexing built in that allows you to lock it in 36 positions (or 10-degree increments) for drilling, fluting, grooving, and other operations.

For added convenience, the spindle is indexed with a screw-in pin provided with the lathe. There's also a push-button spindle lock on the front of the headstock for a simple, tool-free way to temporarily lock the spindle when you install or remove the faceplate, chuck, or other screw-on accessories.

Heavy-Gauge Wire Guard for Safety
A special mount on the rear of the headstock accepts a heavy-gauge wire guard (included), and a spring-loaded pin indexes the guard up or down to make mounting and removing turned objects easy. This guard also serves as a protective shield between the work and the operator, when large chips and chunks generated while turning blanks can turn into dangerous projectiles.

User-Friendly Controls, LED, and Toggle Switch
Designed to be user-friendly, the JWL-1642EVS features dial-operated, infinite speed controls conveniently located on the front of the headstock. A large digital LED readout makes monitoring the spindle speed easy and very accurate, while the toggle switch on the front panel allows selecting forward and reverse spindle directions. Finally, a large-diameter pull on/push off button (also on the front panel) is easily accessible no matter your operating position.

Large Tailstock for Stability
The JWL-1642EVS has a large tailstock with the mass and wide base to generate the stability you need. The large ram has a full four-inch travel, operated by an easy-to-turn, five-inch diameter handwheel fitted with a spinner handle, the popular #2 Morse taper, and a 3/8-inch diameter through hole, which is convenient for drilling lamp bases. Finally, like the tool-rest base, a large handle makes it easy to lock the tailstock securely in place.

Ball bearing Live Center and Cast Iron Tool Rest Base for Versatility
The JWL-1642EVS comes with a high-end, multi-row ball bearing live center with a screw-on, large-diameter cone for projects like peppermills and boxes, and a cast-iron tool-rest base designed to be very rigid, easy to position, and thanks to its comfortably long handle, very easy to lock in position.

The JWL-1642EVS measures 29 x 28 x 59 inches (WxHxL), weighs 410 pounds, and is covered by a five-year warranty.

About JET: A History of Sharing New, Feature-Rich Products
Opened in 1958 after the founder of the company, Leslie P. Sussman, took the first Boeing Jet Airplane trip from Seattle, Washington to Japan, JET began as a small dealer that sold air hoists and trolleys out of a single hardware store in Seattle. Over the years, JET has carried everything from snowmobiles, transmitter radios, and forklifts to nylon stockings, but by the early 1970s, metalworking had become the base of their business line. And by the 1980s, JET had expanded into the realm of woodworking. Today, you'll find that JET offers a wide range of popular woodworking tools that are backed with best-in-class features and excellent service.

What's in the Box
One lathe, two cast legs, one tailstock, one headstock, one tool-rest body, one tool basket, one guard assembly, one accessory package, one owner's manual, and warranty card.


1.) 1-1/2-horsepower electronic woodworking lathe;
2.) 16-inch swing, 42-inches between centers; variable speed (0-3,200 rpm);
3.) Cast-iron bed and legs;
4.) Includes lathe, tool rest, faceplate, spur center, live center, knockout bar, tool storage rack;
5.) 410-pounds for reduced vibration; 63-1/2 by 20 by 50-inches; 1-year warranty;

Package Height x Length x Width: 59 in. x 59 in. x 29 in.
Package Weight: 454.18 lbs.

Accessories for JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase