Buying guide

Buying a used automatic lathe: what to check

Published on October 12, 2026

Sliding-headstock (Swiss-type) or fixed-headstock lathes: the checks to make before buying a used bar turning machine, from the spindle to the bar feeder.

Automatic lathes for bar turning are built to last, and many used machines still produce highly precise parts. Their value, however, depends heavily on their equipment and maintenance. These points will help you compare offers and prepare your visit.

The right type of machine

• Sliding headstock (Swiss-type) for long, slender parts; fixed headstock for short parts with a larger diameter.
• Bar capacity suited to your parts, with some margin.
• Number of axes and tools, live tooling, sub-spindle for back-working.
• Rotary or fixed guide bushing, and whether the machine can run without a guide bushing for short parts.

The CNC control

Note the make and version of the control, and check that your programmers know it. Ask for the backup of the machine parameters and the list of active software options: they are part of the machine's value and are expensive to buy again.

Spindles, axes and guide bushing

• Listen to the main spindle and sub-spindle at several speeds: no bearing noise and no abnormal heating.
• Have the runout measured with a dial indicator.
• Check the axis reversal backlash and the condition of the covers.
• Inspect the condition of the guide bushing and its inserts.
• Note the spindle hours, which tell you more than the power-on hours.

Bar feeder, oil and fire safety

Is the bar feeder included, which make, for which diameters? Bar turning often runs on neat cutting oil: check the filtration, the oil mist extraction and whether there is a fire suppression system, which insurers often require.

The test cut that beats any promise

Ask to see the machine produce a part similar to yours, then measure it. A part within tolerance, with a good surface finish, tells you more than any description.

The total cost

Add to the price the transport, installation, any overhaul (spindle, guide bushing) and training. A slightly more expensive machine, well equipped and well maintained, often works out cheaper than a bargain that needs reconditioning.