Dave:
Its kind of a tough call on which is the better deal, the Cummins(ToolsNow) at $399.99 + Shipping or the Enco at $425.95 including shipping. First, I would go to the Cummins site "cart" to see what the shipping would be to you in Calif. Second, I would place a phone call to Cummins to clarify whether or not a 3 jaw chuck is included (list mentions 3 Jaws but not chuck specifically and check to see if a 4 position tool post is included). Be sure to ask for the full name of the person you talk to on the phone first thing and note the exact date & time of day. It tends to keep them more honest and more likely to ask a supervisor if they don't know the answer to your question rather than B.S. you. Also with a name, if a product arrives and is not what you expected based on what you were told, you have someone to point to in resolving the problem.
Also ask to verify the spindle RPM range 100-2500. The Enco spec's: 200-2900 RPM. The Cummins, with 100 RPM minimum is much better than 200. Ever try to thread 1/2-13 up to a shoulder at 200 RPM? Don't Do It!
The Cummins appears to have a 50mm longer bed than the Enco and if I properly recollect, the Chinese Co.(looks like Seig) makes these in 2 sizes, 250mm and 300mm otherwise, they are the same lathe. The longer bed length is a Great Big Plus for the Cummins.
The Cummins lists as standard equipment both a steady and follow rest vs. Enco steady and follow as $36 & $25.70 options.
The Spindle through hole is equal to or 1/32 larger in the Cummins - Enco spec's. say 3/4" vs. Cummins 20mm. My guess is that, if there is any difference, it's accidental.
The electrical controls look to be a little different - off/on switch & speed control. Might want to make a closer comparison on the controls.
Even if the lathe (either) comes with a 3 jaw chuck, I would recommend also ordering a 4 jaw chuck for several reasons. Also, the Cummins does NOT come with a live center(C. lists it as a "rolling center") as does the Enco, so if I bought the Cummins, I'd order the $15 live center too.
Obviously, accessories are just that, and can be changed but bed length like spindle inside dia. can Not(not practically). So, If I were buying, I would be leaning pretty hard towards the Cummins. The steady and follow rests are almost a support necessity turning longer small dia. objects and are more costly as Enco accessories than a Cummins chuck.
Have I helped or made the choice more difficult? Hope I've helped.
Feel free to PM me.
