Woodturning - The Stratos XL Lathe Overview

[@PhilAndersonShadyAcresWoodshop]

As always, a very well explained and interesting video, Mike. I can hear the anticipation and excitement in your voice as you go over the many high quality and useful features of your new lathe. Agreed, you will never need another. Well done! Phil

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Phil much appreciate you stopping by. Stay safe my friend.

[@gordroberts53]

Beautiful piece of machinery, Mike and well deserved. Enjoy! Best I’d the season to you and yours.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Gord a belated "same to you and yours".

[@jerrydempsey3490]

I'm envious Mike. I have a 1937 Atlas Precision Machine lathe. It's 83 years old and still works perfectly. Always enjoy your videos. Cheers from Ohio, USA.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Jerry ... it is that is jealous of your machine my friend :). Stay safe.

[@chrisholt2474]

Yes, what an excellent machine. It just shouts quality engineering. I am sure you will be really pleased with your purchase. I know you have the skills and talent to put it through it’s paces. That lathe has presence and I love it. Thank you for sharing, enjoy your new lathe, happy turning, stay safe, regards, Chris.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks for your kind words Chris. Stay safe my friend.

[@johnvoak8970]

An excellent overview Mike. What a machine you have there, can’t wait to see the Lathe in operation. Many thanks once again for all your videos, they are very much appreciated. Take care and keep safe, regards John.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks John much appreciated.

[@KostasAnnikasDeftereos]

Hello brother ! Thanks a lot for the shout out ! You are very lucky to get the new model of the Stratos XL ! Have some great features! The faster tail stock and the two plugs on the inverter is amazing !! You make a great review again !! You must get the bed extender! You will love it !!

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Kostas, it is a great machine. Maybe in the future I will get the extension ... we'll see 😉 Thanks for watching and stay safe my friend.

[@danhealy7341]

Congratulations Mike. That looks to be a fine piece of equipment. Can’t wait to see you turn with it. Best of luck and stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Dan you stay safe too my friend.

[@dozukime]

Hi Mike, very well explained, but what is the bracket behind the head-stock?

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you ... its for a copying system 😀

[@satanspacemakers_theoldfar376]

Mike learning a lot from your videos, keep going. What was the main reason/s for changing the much enthused previous Stratos for XL. Would be useful to know for future decisions. Thanks.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you. Wanted a bigger lathe and the XL was the natural progression 🙂

[@valborchardt3596]

Very nice Mike. Am sure you will have many hours enjoying it. Take care and be safe. Much love from us in South Africa

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Val you stay safe too my friend.

[@michaelglackin2420]

Very well made video as always Mike you can make a lot of very nice stuff

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Michael very much appreciated.

[@ErikAnderson1]

That is one sweet looking machine very well designed for the woodturner! Thanks Mike stay well!

[@MikeWaldt]

It sure is Erik you stay safe too mate.

[@victorkrause1648]

Thank ypu for the video Mike. Something you did not mention in the video is The Lathe Guard Bracket. Probably not hugely important but usefull....? What is this bracket mostly used for or how do you think you might use it?

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks for watching Victor, in all honesty I gave never considered using it, but assumed it was for, as you suggest, a lathe guard.

[@stephenswail2526]

Very compressive overview.A beautiful lathe.I'm delighted for you,well earned.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Stephen. Stay safe mate.

[@JohnClothier]

That is one awesome lathe! Very interesting video too. Thanks for sharing Mike

[@MikeWaldt]

Than looks for watching John and stay safe mate.

[@glencrandall7051]

That is one very nice piece of machinery. It is massive. Except for a 4 jaw chuck it appears to come with about everything you might need. You should have many, many hours of enjoyable turning on it. Your presentation was excellent. Very clear explanation of the set up and features. Thanks for sharing. And please stay healthy.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Glen.

[@TheChesta]

Hi Mike. Any chance you can show me the feet and how they adjust please? Also, I've had a look through the spec, but can't see any info or estimate about what max weight piece you can turn. Any idea please? What's the heaviest it can handle, in your estimation?

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Paul ... send me PM or call me via messenger and we can have a chat. Cheers Mike

[@tompavlik302]

What a beautiful machine!! Best of luck with it, stay safe and I am looking forward to seeing it put to work. Take care.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Tom.

[@tommartin3200]

Hi Mike I have Axminster AwLV 1000 and just purchases an FU350 from Hope plus chuck looking forward to the warmer weather to enjoy, love your videos.

[@MikeWaldt]

Enjoy your new lathe Tom and thanks for your kind words mate.

[@davidmorgan7522]

Very nice machine Mike! I can see many enjoyable hours spent on it. Enjoy! Take care, Dave

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks David.

[@michaelwright1213]

That's a lovely bit of kit Mike. I started in this turning game about three and a half years ago and you were the first to give me the benefit of your videos. Then watched Steve Jones and between the two of you I am now only destroying small amounts of wood. But what has me confused is that in that time you have had, I think, three if not four new lathes while I am almost certain Steve hasn't even had a new Skew. Only an observation one Welshman to another.

[@MikeWaldt]

Go figure Michael ... lol. I have no defense mate.

[@michaelwright1213]

@@MikeWaldt just in time to self isolate. Will you have enough wood to spin for 6 months??

[@MikeWaldt]

Oh yes Michael ... but I'm only initially off for three weeks ... may have to go back then ... we shall see. Stay safe my friend.

[@ronbeckhaus7326]

Congratulations, Mike. That is a beautiful piece of kit. Much envy from me! Enjoy it and stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Ron.

[@mikefriend9928]

Mike Why did you change from the FU230 to the XL In a relatively short time frame ?

[@johnpbh]

Yaaay... Mike is nearly back up and running. Lovely, lovely looking lathe. I'm looking forward to watching many years of great turning on it.

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol ... thanks John.

[@Scott1985-]

Hi Mike Great Video My Friend That is Great Machine The Stratons XL Lathes Thank You For Sharing Take Care and Stay Safe 👍

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Scott you stay safe as well mate.

[@matko101000]

great video! Can you tell me please which company made is this machine?

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Matko, the company is Drechselbedarf Schulte Germany. Thanks for watching.

[@GordonRock1]

I thought you would never need another lathe with the last one! This certainly is a step up in many ways. God on you, Mike! Okay, I have to go and change before heading to the shop. I was all ready to go but you made me drool all over myself! What a mess! All your fault, my friend! 😃😃😃 Stay safe and healthy, Mike. 😷😷😷😷😷 Happy turning, .....Gord

[@MikeWaldt]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I really do think this is it now... maybe the bed extension down the road ... but that's all ... honest! Stay safe mate. Cheers Mike

[@WoodenItBeNice]

Hi Mike, That is a monster, but it has to be the prettiest monster I have seen. Great overview Mike and I hope you get many many years of service from it. Cheers, Huw

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Huw and thank you much appreciated. Stay safe my friend.

[@barbaraseiler3273]

Hi Mike - I like your chanel. I am turning on a Hager HDE49 at the moment and I am thinking about buying a new lathe. I sway between the stratos fu230 and the xl. Not sure, if I really need the big one. Can you give me an advice? What made you switch from the fu230 to the xl?

[@MikeWaldt]

They are both excellent machines in my view. After trying out the XL a while ago I wanted to eventually get one. I truly believe I will never change it .... hopefully!!!

[@colinchalmers1099]

Very nice lathe Mike,thanks for sharing.Cheers Colin.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Colin.

[@WoodyWood]

Brilliant Mike you are a very lucky boy I would like to know what the difference is between the old Stratos and this new one and why you needed to upgrade??

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Woody, I didn't actually NEED to upgrade ... but have always wanted the XL so I took the plunge. The difference is more stable, power, and capacity without extension beds.

[@joelsmith2991]

Congratulations on the new lathe. Best of luck with it!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Joel.

[@timberdish]

Very nice, Mike. I'm sure it'll do you proud mate. Thanks for the detailed overview!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Matt I certainly hope so. Stay safe mate.

[@jamesmacthread5986]

Thanks Mike, great looking machine, look forward to your next video. Stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks James you stay safe too my friend.

[@AndysCornishCreations]

Hi Mike....I'm glad that you could put on a brave face despite the fact that you have got to the stage in life when you just have to move up to an XL ...its nothing to get embarrassed about..its just part of life...embrace it... anyway chin up Mike!! ...All the best....Andy

[@MikeWaldt]

Lololol Andy and thank you. Stay safe my friend.

[@PhilScarlett]

Thanks Mike, that impressed mine turned up yesterday so your video was very informative indeed!

[@MikeWaldt]

Many years to enjoy Phil 🙂

[@carolriley8472]

Very impressive lathe...I'm sure you are quite happy with your new toy!!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Carol ... very happy 🙂

[@james5426]

Beautiful piece of machinery Mike. I’d feel jealous if I hadn’t also upgraded my lathe! This self isolation is turning it to be quite expensive lol!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you James ... enjoy your new toy too mate 🙂

[@woodturninginscunthorpe8207]

I'm glad it turned up before things really went pear shaped. Gawd strewth! That is monster and I'm sure you'll get great enjoyment from it. I didn't realise it would be so big. If I could get it my workshop, I'd have to turn from the outside cos the two of us wouldn't fit in together! Enjoy yourself, Mate, and stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Graham ... yes it is a tad large, but still allows Mu to get her car in ... just! Enjoyed our chat mate. Speak soon and stay safe mate.

[@ARCWoodCraft]

Well, what a beaut! Hope your happy with your new purchase, she certainly is a sight to behold 👍

[@MikeWaldt]

It is and I am Andy. Stay safe mate.

[@grahamjeeves8780]

Mike, I watched your video on the Triton TPT125, I purchased this from one of the tool fairs about a year ago now. I'm suffering with the machine taking too much of on the feed and exit. You said in your video it would sand out but I'm wondering if you found out why or managed to overcome somehow? Regards Graham

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Graham, I find that the correct forward pressure on the entry cut helps a lot, and that the indeed and outfeed tables are at the right level. I cannot say what these elements are as it is a matter of trial and error to establish them on your machine. Hope this helps.

[@frederickday7600]

Hello, thank you for the videos you make. You have helped me in unimaginable ways. I would like to send you photographs of the items I have made as a result of your teachings, but don't know how to. I have an Axminster AT406WL which I believe is the old 1428. May I ask why you decided to change yours for the Stratos XL model. Again thank you so much. I don't know what I could have done if you hadn't produced these videos. Best etc, Frederick

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Frederick and thank you for your kind words. My email is on my about page. Cheers. Mike

[@cedaroakfarm8596]

Hi Mike, great lathe for a Master, wow, you should be able to continue your superb work. I love the inverter idea and the plugs in the frame for some accessories like LED lights. In the U.S. if I move up to a larger 220 volt 3 HP, a new circuit has to be installed in the shop to handle it. Is STRATOS offered in the U.S.? Yes we are self quarantined here until April 6th. Hope to get lathe time Saturday, after all the out side items are at least caught up. Be careful and safe. Craig

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Craig and thanks for stopping by mate. I am well happy the her, and now that I have been furloughed I fell lots of shop time in my future 🙂 Stay safe.

[@michaelsteventon7649]

The headstock looks like they are 30-degree increments, not 45 degrees?

[@MikeWaldt]

You can swivle the headstock to whatever degree you wish Michael.

[@samswoodshop9937]

Mr. Waldt, Mike does Hope ship to the USA? So far the Stratos XL meets + all of my requirements as I am a new to wood-turning and My first does most of my needs but I need an additional one for the lower end RPM's. You did a very good presentation to boot.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Sam and thank you. Simon doesn't ship to the US at present due to insurance issues, but will be working on it in the future.

[@davidchong2365]

Thanks for this review. I found it very helpful and informative. How have you found it over the time you've had it? I am looking between this and the Oneway 2436 and would very much value your thought on the relative values of each. I understand the Oneway doesn't have a swivel headstock. How much do you use this feature? i find this the feature which leans me more to the Stratos XL but if in practice its not that important i may very well change my mind... Thank again for your excellent videas.

[@MikeWaldt]

I can only say that I still smile when I start to turn on it, a great lathe in my opinion.

[@BBTurning]

Good luck with it Mike, can't wait to see you turn something.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you BB. Stay safe.

[@icespeckledhens]

I think you said you would never need another lathe after you bought the Axminster AWVSL1000 lathe and looked what happened 😂😂😂 It looks an excellent machine and your review was first rate. I hope you have many happy hours with it. Thanks James

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you James ... I know ... I am a liar aren't I!!! Keep well mate.

[@icespeckledhens]

@@MikeWaldt I've only met you the one time and I know you are not a liar but a friend, you simply reviewed your opinion based on experience. Take care in these difficult times, especially as you on the front line with probably, some difficult customers. James

[@missteeturns]

Wow that's one hell of a machine. May I wish you good turning & stay safe. 🙂

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks T ... stay safe my friend.

[@davesmith3510]

Hi Mike, as a total newcomer I've thoroughly enjoyed watching all your video's. Very instructional and entertaining thank you. One query.... You occasionally mention filling cracks with CA glue?? Would I be correct in thinking that is Cyno Acrilate (super glue)?? Many thanks, look forward to seeing your next project video. Dave Smith.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Dave and thank you. You are correct, the CA that we tend to get for turning is a more purified product, but really they all do a similar job.

[@Baziell]

Thanks for the informative video. I'm new to lathes so this might be a silly question but what is thay mounting point for on top of the motor?

[@MikeWaldt]

My pleasure, I am not sure what you mean, but if it's the piece that sticks out, it's for copy turning. Cheers. Mike

[@Baziell]

@@MikeWaldt yeah, that bit :). Thanks for the reply, now I'm going to look up how that works :)

[@lucienpouliot8690]

Nice Lathe Mike. Love some of the features. Be safe Mike with the lathe and what is going on around the world.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Lucien ... you stay safe too my friend.

[@kenjoe]

I suspect it is quite a while since you felt so much like a kid on Christmas morning! :) Congratulations and we all look forward to seeing what you do now ...

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Ken much appreciated m

[@samuelmcilroy7331]

Sweet piece of kit. Well done!!!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Samuel.

[@leeclarke3443]

That double ended morse taper is a great idea i can't seem to find one in 1mt though..sad times

[@MikeWaldt]

Uou could turn one from hardwood Lee.

[@paulrohracher1200]

Hello! Could you tell me what brand your Face shield respirator is and how much it cost? Keep up your great, great work!!! Greetings from Austria!

[@paulrohracher1200]

Thank you!!

[@MikeWaldt]

William answered for me Paul 🙂

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Paul 🙂

[@nakkahallam5653]

hi, mike I'm new to wood turning and been watching your videos for tips and things to make, can i say they are brilliant and really helpful, just a quick question, we live in the sticks and have a wood burner so not stuck for wood to turn we have 3 piles in the wood shed and we let them dry out. I've been gouging them into blanks but come the next day they have all split to the centre, is it because they are still wet or is it particular woods, many thanx if you get time to read and reply.

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Mojo and thanks for your kind words. There are several ways to reduce cracking, coat the end of wet logs with either hot wax or edge in sealer, latex paint or PVA glue also do a good job. Rough turned pieces that are turned wet should be stored in shavings in a bag until dry enough to finish turn. If you search on KZbin there are some great videos on the subject. Take care. Mike

[@wayneatacornwoodturning2206]

Can I ask why you chose the Stratos XL rather than the Axminster 508?

[@MikeWaldt]

Hi Wayne, I had the Straos FU230 and was well impressed with the build quality and performance, hence the XL seemed the natural choice. Stay safe.

[@wayneatacornwoodturning2206]

@@MikeWaldt Thank you for the reply

[@pertrasig8355]

do you know where the stratos xl is manufactured

[@MikeWaldt]

Not sure Per, but I do know the quality of build is superb.

[@pertrasig8355]

@@MikeWaldt yes I have one in my basement, therefor I asked. I want one on my plase in vietnam. I live in sweden

[@Bramsshed1913]

Its a lovely piece of machinery Mike..... way out of my league but I'm really pleased for you mate and I'll be looking forward to some great turnings from you both !! 😃 Take care mate, Bram

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Bram stay safe my friend.

[@alanandkarenrouse747]

Nice "little" "toy" . If I had 50 more years I would get one myself. You don't even have to attach it to the floor. I'll bet you could turn a bowl big enough to feed elephants. Nice machine. Thanks for the "spin-up". I have one question. What is the "indexing" feature for?

[@squat224]

Flutes, flats, mortises stuff like that. Some guys use it for doing designs on bowls too. If you need a flute on a table leg, and they all need to be evenly spaced, you'd use it then, for example.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Alan, as Squat says indexing basically allows for equidistant spacing for drilling or embellishment on a piece.

[@oaksho]

Very nice Mike but whats it like for turning pens? :-) It is a huge piece of kit and looks indestructible. The two power outlets are very handy for lights and a dust extractor. I hope to see it used in anger very soon. All the best Tony

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Tony and lololol. Stay safe my friend.

[@allanhugh2044]

I have the Laguna Revo 24-36 and it is an extremely good lathe, but this is in another league. Very good explanation of relevant stuff for turning. That 30mm tool rest post will have an incredibly solid feeling, Vicmarc ones have been 30mm for years and are so rigid compared to 25.4mm posts. I do think the Laguna has an edge with the lights, one each end. But apart from that, this seems to be ever so better in each department. Here's hoping you get to enjoy it for years to come.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks for watching Allan.

[@charlesreicks648]

Looks like a really nice machine, well engineered for sure. Can it be used in the states? Is it a 110 or 220 voltage?

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Charles, unfortunately Simon doesn't ship to the US because of shipping insurance issues, he is working on it apparently. Stay safe my friend.

[@stinkbunny149]

The last lathe you’ll ever need. If I remember rightly Mike you said that some years and 3 lathes ago lol

[@MikeWaldt]

I know I did ... a man of my tender years is allowed to be wrong once in a while 😉

[@yuvallahav]

That is a dream machine. I've turned green watching you man... are you going to bring it to Makers Central 2020 (which is now in August, so no excuses!!)? :)

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol ... thanks Yuval ... hopefully I'll see you in August ...Without the lathe!!! Stay safe mate.

[@michaelogden5958]

Nifty bit o' kit there, Mr. Mike! Not that you ever get catches (right?!?), but I'll bet you'll know it if it happens! :-) Cheers!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Michael, I think you're right my friend 🙂

[@JimsonMakes]

Looks like an awesome bit of kit mate. Speak soon Cheers Jim

[@MikeWaldt]

That it is Jim. Cheers Mike

[@trevor33jan1]

Mike, you are like a child at christmas...............and why wouldn't you be with that beauty sitting in front of you. Looking forward to see what you start turning on it mate, thanks and stay safe out there!!!

[@MikeWaldt]

You're not wrong Trevor thanks for watching and stay safe mate.

[@royalvarez6436]

For a brief second, I thought you had used camera magic to dwarf yourself. What incredible beast of a lathe!!! Congratulations 🍾 now mount a tree stump on it and let’s start whittling. 🥂

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol Roy ... thsnks my friend.

[@bernardfutter5327]

Magnificent machine, Mike. You really will be in charge with all that power and accuracy. A third of a ton weight! I'm sure you considered your floor carefully first? Bernard.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Bernard ... the floor is concrete so well up to the weight. Stay safe my friend.

[@glenmckelvey5952]

What a beauty Mike you just need some wheels on it and you can go on the road like Carl lol . Well explained as always looking forward to seeing it in action . Stay safe and take care .

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Glen and a big lol mate. You stay safe too my friend.

[@stuartscott9646]

Impressive beautiful beats! Looking forward to seeing you create using it. Stay safe and well.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Scott. You stay safe as well my friend.

[@huigkersbergen5555]

Hi Mike, great you got it. I know for sure you should have a lot pleasure of this machine.

[@MikeWaldt]

Indeed I will Huig and thank you.

[@nigeloram3524]

That looks a beast!😉 I look forward to your next video where you put it to the test. I’m sure it’ll be smooth, powerful and quiet. I could never have one like that as it’s just too big for the space I have. I’ll stick to my Axminster AT350WL😀

[@MikeWaldt]

It is and thank you Ivor.

[@claypigeon001]

Rock solid bit of kit Mike! Should keep you busy for a while😉😷 look after yourself and stay safe👍

[@MikeWaldt]

It is Jonathan ... you stay safe too my friend.

[@daverothwell4579]

Sweet bit of kit mate!!! 👍

[@MikeWaldt]

She is that Dave, take care.

[@pjbaddict]

Nice lathe mike... bit of a beast that

[@MikeWaldt]

Cheers Glyn, that it is mate. Stay safe you two and love to Jo.

[@victorkrause1648]

Guard bracket,....Mike I think this bracket would be very usefull to mount a camera, for our youtube stars like yourself!!!..for us mortels, probably good to mount a holder for a cold beer or peppermints or more tools!....the list could be endless. (I have also jumped ahead with the Stratos xl from Simon Hope) Mine is still boxed up.

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol ... great ideas all Victor 😁

[@terrybartlett92]

Hi Mike It's my next lathe, once the mortgage is finished( 2yrs) stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

You'll love it Terence.

[@haroldsworld]

Never Say Never. Pretty lathe, seem to be a mix of features from other lathes, Looks rock solid. I know you will have fun. Stay safe.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you.

[@alfrose9831]

That’s a beauty Mike! Not at all jealous.

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol ... thanks Alf.

[@peterfuller2156]

Very nice mike enjoy, stay safe mate 👍

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Peter.

[@SMee67]

Well that was an education and a half. 👌🏽 It is an impressive looking monster indeed. Did you find it a tad strange or weird when you very first used it, given the fact that it is a good few inches taller than the last one? I mean, that you would probably be able to turn something in your sleep on the old lathe due to what is termed as muscle memory. This one you'd be holding yourself in a totally different manner than your used to, yes? Congrats on the new addition, mate.👍🏽 Take care stay safe and be well.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Bill, although a much bigger machine the spindle height from the floor is still virtually the same as my FU230 was, and the adjustable feet have a good travel to get things just right. Stay safe my friend.

[@SMee67]

@@MikeWaldt Awesome, that is really deceptive in the video then, because to me it really did look as though the spindle sits much higher than your old one. You and your family take care too, mate.👍🏽

[@conejomalvado6280]

I hope you get decades of beautiful work from it!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Conejo.

[@PetrKiskaPE-kneTR-uhlarstvi]

Enjoy new toy👌 looks great👍

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Petr.

[@BillMSmith]

Looks good, Mike. I'm sure there are hours of fun ahead with that, ahem, toy. 😀 BTW, you're looking a bit smaller these days as these lathes get bigger. I may try that in lieu of dieting.

[@MikeWaldt]

Lololol ... thanks Bill.

[@donaldtrabeaux5235]

Very Nice Mike

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Donald.

[@gerryleddy5412]

Do your neighbours lights dim when you are using it Mike? hehehe

[@MikeWaldt]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@genechambers7532]

nice lathge , i want one when i grow up

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Gene 🙂

[@hassanal-mosawi6049]

Thanks for sharing that, well said!

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Hassan.

[@williampletts4739]

Can't wait till you get your next one.my fu 230 is pretty poorly engineered especially the extension bed and the indexing which is almost impossible to use.

[@MikeWaldt]

I have to say I'm speechless William my FU230 was superb as is the XL. The extension bed on the FU230 fitted seamlessly with the lathe and the indexing was spot on. What is the actual fault with them on yours?

[@williampletts4739]

Mike Waldt the bed extension will not align properly causing the tailstock to stick midway.the indexing Spring is far to strong to operate with ease and badly placed, I noticed on your review of this lathe you to had some alignment issues,and some difficulties with the indexing operation.icould go on with more

[@jbs4551]

When mounting the extension it's essential to slide the tailstock kind of 'halfway out' so that it covers the joint between bed and extension. Now tighten the mounting bolts firmly - the extension should now be aligned nicely.

[@williampletts4739]

So, now you think I'm stupid.

[@philscoltock5082]

Have you discussed the extension bed / tailstock issues wih your Dealer or the factory ? With my XL the tailstock fitted perfectly in the bedways but was unusably tight in the extension. The gap in the extension was too small i could barely slide the tailstock around. . I discussed it with the dealer; the factory in Germany Drechselbedarf K. Schulte sent me a replacement within days and collected the problematic one. It is all perfect now - excellent service from Drechselbedarf K. Schulte and Simon Hope

[@alanmullock381]

Makes my lathes look like toys!😲😲😲😲👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😁😁😁😁😁

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol ... still won't make me a better turner mate 🙂

[@jrgenkryger1952]

Stay safe Mike ,i am ordning the stratos xl

[@MikeWaldt]

You too Jorgen, and thank you my friend.

[@michaelshore2300]

Running that kind of power 3 Hp 2100 watt through an adaptor not a good idea, fit a 13 amp British plug. Why are all good lathes so tall? people like me 163 cm 5' 3" have to stand on something (cannot shorten legs) but if legs are shorter lankies could block them easily??

[@MikeWaldt]

I will do that soon Michael, but it does run through an inverter. Stay safe my friend.

[@graemetaylor6511]

Well I think you have now sold me on it.. now i just nee to save the money.. enjoy your new lathe my friend..

[@MikeWaldt]

Thank you Graeme stay safe mate .

[@wernerpfeifer]

I built my own lathe, 4000 watts, 400 volts with a frequency converter. I have enough power at any speed without having to put on a belt!

[@MikeWaldt]

Sounds like a truly magnificent beast Werner.

[@stewartfurini]

Very nice, Mike. Hope you get a lot of fun from it. Fantastic machine.

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Stewart, I will have three weeks minimum to play now as I have been furloughed.

[@stewartfurini]

@@MikeWaldt silver lining.....have a good play!!

[@rockysmith9250]

Quite impressive!! 😊😊😊 ✝✡

[@MikeWaldt]

Thanks Rocky.

[@simonhopkins3867]

Can i play. 😉

[@MikeWaldt]

Lol .... when things go back to normal ... come over mate 🙂