I have to say I was disappointed with this machine even though is is a pretty sound machine. Looking at the larger and smaller machines with threading capabilities I made the mistake of not noticing this machine does not do threads. The units of measure on the adjustments are not in thousands, and every adjustment has a different equivalntcy so you have to use a calculator to figure out what you are going to get with each adjustment.

The mill head is so close to the deck you can't get your tool and your work both in place at the same time.

The unit didn't come with a single cutting tool. I hadn't used a lathe in over 25 years, and we never an "expert" back when I did use them. But it seems there needs to be a way to adjust the height of your cutting tool so it meets your work at the right spot, and there is no way to adjust the height, short of stacking shims (if you have then, and I didn't)under the cutting tool.

It is pretty nice that the mill has it's own motor and adjustable pullies/belt. There isn't a "chuck guard" safey system, and it reminded me real quick of the importance of NEVER leaving the chuck key in the head. Fortunately I was standing off to the side when I flipped it on and the chuck key went flying across the shop.

The manual that came with it, and the one at the HF web site, is really nothing more than an exploded view parts list. No instructions, just all the usual warning anyone with common sense would know about, including don't leave the key in the head, I was lacking some common sense there.

The unit is heavy, over 400 pounds, so have two men and boy available to help get it onto your work bench. In spite of it being well built for the most part the flimsy hinges on the top belt cover are only spot welded on, and one of them broke almost immediately.

I did end up taking it back to HF, and they didn't give me any hassle at all. I still need a lathe, and since the mill wasn't of any use to me I'll probably purchase their 8X12 lathe. It does do threads and I've see only good reviews of it.

Oh yea, one more thing. I paid $599 for it, and before I took it back, as I was researching lathes I found the same product at a different section of the HF web site for $499. Also don't be afraid to search for HF discount coupons. I found a lot of 20% off coupons and will use one to purchase the 8X12 and save $100.

Good luck

This works all right, but it's a little too short to get into those tight, and deep, spark plug wells on the back side of a V-6 or V-8. If you can get it in there, it works pretty well and cleans out the hole fine. I personally wish they made two of these: one for 14mm plug threads and the other for 18mm, and each was about four or five inches long with a knurled end. That would be great.

Works quite well. Cheap too. I got mine for $4. What I like is that when I get the plug started I can reach in deep, get the socket on it and (while leaning over the engine compartment with my feet practically off the ground and unable to see what I'm doing) I can feel the knurled end of the socket and turn the plug in until it's snug and I am sure I haven't cross threaded it. Then, put on a 3/8 inch ratchet and tighten it down. Works really well, particularly on those insanely PITA 2.8L, 3.1L, 3.4L, etc. GM V-6s.

I have to give it a five because a) it was free, and b) it works. Aside from that, I can also say it surprisingly bright. Much brighter than a regular small flashlight bulb. Now, the light is very blue, but so what? It's light and when I'm fumbling around looking for something bright is better.

Note: it was free as part of a super coupon ad in the local newspaper. Present the ad, and they give you a flashlight.

Another good value, particularly on-sale and with a 20% off coupon. Mine cost me $8. I works. It pulls various and sundry items like steering wheels or vibration dampers off. Even if you don't 'need' one, for $8 it can't be beat. Just buy it already!

Knocked it down a star because it has no blow mold case. The plastic tray you see it in is all there is.