Struggling to find a reliable used lathe that doesn’t break the bank or break down soon after buying?

Buying a second-hand lathe can save costs, but only if you know how to assess machine quality, brand value, and possible risks.

%[Used lathe in warehouse](https://cmemachines.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/about.jpg second-hand lathe ready to export")

Used lathes are everywhere, but not all of them are good deals. As a long-time supplier of second-hand machines in China, I’ve seen many buyers fall into traps — but also many succeed. In this guide, I will share practical tips from my daily work, to help you choose the right machine with confidence.

Tips for buying used metal lathes?

Worried about wasting money on a broken or outdated lathe?

To buy a good used metal lathe, focus on working condition¹, price, and supplier reputation². Videos, photos, and inspection are key to avoiding bad choices.

Why used lathes are popular

Used lathes cost far less than new ones. Many small factories or resellers in countries like Bangladesh, India, and Mexico choose them because they need machines fast, at a low cost. New machines often require long wait times. With used ones, the lead time is short, and you get what you see.

What to focus on when buying

Here are key points I recommend you always check:

Item	Why It Matters	My Advice
Machine condition	Core to performance	Always ask for video of machine running
Brand	Some brands are more reliable	Favor names like Dalian3, Shenyang4, C6132
Age of machine	Too old = risk of breakdown	Try to buy machines made within 15 years
Supplier location	Affects cost and delivery time	China is best for price + ready stock
Price vs features	Not all low prices are good deals	Compare multiple suppliers before deciding
Spare parts	Needed for long-term use	Ask if spare parts5 are still available

Used machines are never perfect, but good ones can work for many more years. That’s why I recommend always checking machines by video and even visiting the warehouse if possible.

Common issues with vintage lathes⁶?

Think old lathes mean old problems?

Vintage lathes often have worn spindles, missing covers, outdated motors, and accuracy problems. Always inspect the core parts before buying.

What problems I often see in old machines

Machines over 20 years old can still run, but many have hidden issues. I’ve seen customers buy beautiful-looking lathes online, only to find they have internal cracks or motor faults.

Top common problems:

• Worn lead screws or spindles: These cause vibrations and poor finish on parts.
• Leaking hydraulics: Common in models with powered tailstock or slides.
• Weak motor or rewired components: Reduces power and increases maintenance risk.
• Broken or missing dials/gears: Affects precision.
• Painted-over damage: Some suppliers repaint cracked frames to hide issues.

How to avoid these risks

Ask for:

• Clear machine photos from all angles
• Running videos showing movement in all axes
• Machine serial number and nameplate
• Inspection service (by agent or third party)

I always offer inspection at my warehouse before loading. Many of my customers, like Mahmud from Bangladesh, prefer machines they can check by video, especially when they can't visit in person.

Top brands of refurbished⁷ lathes?

Wondering which used lathe brands are worth buying?

Some brands like Dalian³, Shenyang⁴, and SMTCL hold value even when used. These machines last longer and have better support for parts.

My most requested brands

Some brands keep their value even after years of use. These are the top names my buyers ask for, again and again:

Brand	Country	Why Buyers Love It
Dalian3	China	Heavy-duty, simple structure
Shenyang4	China	Popular parts, wide availability
SMTCL	China	Modern layout, easy to rebuild
Mazak	Japan	Precise, high-quality, hard to find used
Okuma	Japan	CNC models, expensive but reliable
TOS	Czech	Vintage models still run well

These brands are popular not only because they are well-built, but also because spare parts⁵ are easy to get, especially in Asia.

What “[refurbished] really means

Many suppliers use the term "[refurbished] loosely. In my warehouse, refurbishment includes:

• Changing worn parts like belts, gears, motors
• Repainting the surface
• Testing machine functions fully
• Replacing lubricants

However, not all suppliers do real refurbishment. So always ask for clear proof — before-and-after photos, video of operation, or even invoice showing replaced parts.

How to assess lathe condition before purchase?

Not sure how to check if a used lathe is still good?

Assess a lathe’s condition by checking spindle runout⁸, bed wear⁹, slide movement, motor noise¹⁰, and tailstock alignment. Test runs are the best proof.

My step-by-step inspection tips

When I inspect a machine for a client, here is what I usually check:

1. Spindle and chuck

• Rotate manually to check noise or play
• Measure runout using dial gauge

2. Bedways and slides

• Feel for uneven surface or scoring
• Move carriage and cross-slide — must be smooth

3. Tailstock

• Align with spindle using center punch
• Move back and forth — should be tight but smooth

4. Motor and electrics

• Turn on machine and listen for motor noise¹⁰
• Check all buttons and safety functions

5. Gearbox and feeds

• Change speeds to test gears
• Engage feed and threading — watch for jumping or noise

Quick condition table

Check Item	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Spindle runout	Under 0.05 mm	Shows bearing condition
Bed flatness	Smooth, no deep wear lines	Affects precision of work
Gearbox sounds	Quiet shifting, no metal grinding noise	Indicates good internal components
Electricals	All switches respond	Safety and operation
Accessories	Toolpost, tailstock, steady rest included	Value for money

Some buyers skip inspection to save time. But my advice is — always inspect or trust a supplier who gives honest video proof. It’s the only way to avoid surprises later.

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Conclusion

Used lathes can be smart buys, but only with the right checks, brand knowledge, and supplier trust.