Lodge & Shipley "Blue Chip" 18 Engine Lathe

18"/28" x 84" Gap Bed | 15 HP High-Torque | American-Made Heavy Iron

Overview

The Lodge & Shipley Blue Chip 18 is a legendary American-built engine lathe, engineered for shops that require maximum rigidity and high-torque metal removal. This is the highly versatile Gap Bed model, offering a standard 18.5" swing for precision work, with a removable gap that increases capacity to 28" for large-diameter flanges, pulleys, and flywheels.

With a massive 84-inch distance between centers, this machine is perfectly suited for long-shaft turning and heavy-duty repair work. Weighing in at nearly 8,000 lbs, the Blue Chip 18 offers a level of vibration dampening that modern, lighter lathes simply cannot replicate.

Technical Specifications

• Swing Over Bed: 18.5"
• Swing Through Gap: 28" (Removable Gap Type)
• Distance Between Centers: 84"
• Spindle Bore: 2.5"
• Spindle Speeds (12): 1,500 RPM Max
• Main Motor: 15 HP, 230V/460V, 3-Phase
• Bed Width: 14.5" (Induction Hardened & Ground)
• Threading Range: 2 – 112 TPI (Comprehensive Inch Range)
• Tailstock Taper: #4 Morse Taper
• Approx. Machine Weight: 7,800 lbs

Key Features & Dealer Benefits

• Exceptional Rigidity: Built on a wide-stance, induction-hardened bed. The Blue Chip series was specifically designed to handle the forces of modern carbide tooling without chatter.
• 15 HP Geared Headstock: Delivers massive torque at low RPMs for heavy roughing cuts, while maintaining the precision balance needed for high-speed finishing.
• 84" Work Envelope: The extended bed length makes this a "must-have" for hydraulic shops, allowing for the turning of long rams and cylinders.
• User-Friendly Control: Features the classic L&S "color-coded" speed selection and a highly responsive carriage with one-shot lubrication for the ways.
• Heavy-Duty Tailstock: Features a massive quill and tang drive, providing the support needed for heavy drilling and long-shaft centering.