Speaking of time spent tidying the lathe, I just purchased this 1943 Ex US Department of Defense Monarch 18.5" swing lathe. It is in terrific condition with almost no wear on the ways, however I am now into it for 60 hours of degreasing and painting. The entire lathe was coated in heavy grease and grime from years spent in the toolroom of a large Battleship of some kind. This prevented rust, but it would leave your hands covered in black grime after any contact with it.
It got a coat of Hammerite glass particle paint, now fitting a DRO to it, repair the coolant pump, run three phase wiring and begin to use.
It seemed like a good idea to get a larger capacity lathe, however I now need to live long enough to make it worthwhile!
Glen
After much cleaning and painting with toxic but very tough paint-