Old Colchester Master

**Nellster** · 27-07-2010

First of all, Hello to everyone.
I've joined the forum because I cannot find people and info that are relyable until I found you.

I have just been given a 1930's ish Colchester Master, think it's an early example because it has a clutch lever over the gear head. I need to strip the lathe to transport it, and then , hopefully restore it. Has anyone got any tips, Honestly, I think I need them.
Many thanks Neil.

**BillTodd** · 28-07-2010

Just in case you haven't found Tony's site:

http://www.lathes.co.uk/colchester/page14.html

He may have manuals too.

BTW He's always after pictures, so take plenty of your restoration.

Bill

**Nellster** · 28-07-2010

Originally Posted by BillTodd

Just in case you haven't found Tony's site:

http://www.lathes.co.uk/colchester/page14.html

He may have manuals too.

BTW He's always after pictures, so take plenty of your restoration.

Bill

Thanks Bill for the reply. I have seen the site but the information is limited. I hoped there was something a bit more in depth on the web but, the old girl is almost 80, and it will take time for the web to catch up. Many thanks again, I will re-visit the site and try to gain more info. Neil

**irving2008** · 28-07-2010

Best place to ask would be the Colchester Owners Group on Yahoo

**Nellster** · 30-07-2010

That was a good call thanks, Lost of photos but posed a question and it still isn't posted, I've only got a week before I have to move the lathe and I think I,m going to have to wing it a little.
How much is a sensible amount of money to spend restoring this lathe, I know it was given to me, but I don't want to throw loads of money at it only to find it's worth very little?
thanks again for the link....Neil

**irving2008** · 30-07-2010

Theres one on ebay at the mo for £150, but not one thats as old as yours. TBH for a 1930's model probably worth no more than £200 tops, but thats not the point is it. How much to restore? who knows, depends on what needs doing and what facilities you have...

**Nellster** · 31-07-2010

That's brilliant, I was worried that I could be messing up a bit of history.
The clutch hub is shot, so it means I can fit a new motor, and variable speed inverter drive for flexibility without being to concerned.
Thank you again for the information. I am sure I'll have more questions as soon as I have my hands on it. 6 days to go!