Vevor 8x14 Metal Lathe Unboxing

I've wanted to add a metal lathe to my workshop for years. The small metal lathes from overseas can have their issues but with a little time and clean up they can be a fun addition to a small workshop. The main things that this one needed was a good cleaning, grease lubrication of the drive gears, cleaning and setting of the gibs, and an overall tightening of all bolts and nuts.

I ordered this one on eBay however for reviews (some good, some not so much) and ease of return they are also on Amazon:

Thanks for taking a look!

[sweetgumnyc]

Whats your opinion of this machine 7 months in? Im thinking of buying one. Can it machine steel?

[RandomlyAwkward]

Did the Destruction Manual have a cryptic message written inside asking to be rescued from the sweatshop?

My last purchase smelled like the Guangdong Province. I always smell the Chinese air to get a feel of what factory life is like.

Looks like it will be fun to play with on a “lathe-y” summer day. You can listen to The Byrds…

Always wanted a lathe….

[rodgraff]

I’m sorry you bought this piece of scrap. We threw ours right back where it came from, the recycle bin. What are you using for a tool bit, a wood turning chisel?

[Ttotheman]

What grease/ oil did you use for the gears? I got some wd40 lubricant but I think the gears are still quite loud.
Cheers

[raymatton]

I don't understand why your machine came to you with what you pointed out , dings scratches , grit. Is this the trend with all of the Amazon lathes or generally the Vevor line? I was tempted to buy one however I would like a machine that's flawless out of the box. I have 2 name brand Lathes that arrived as I would expect in pristine condition.