Most shops have one. It's the brake lathe pushed into a corner of the bay, under a tarp or a stack of boxes. Maybe it was replaced by a newer machine, maybe the tech who used it left, or maybe the shop got into the habit of swapping rotors instead. Either way, it takes up floor space and it isn't earning anything.

We hear from service managers about this regularly. Not long ago, a dealership service manager emailed us to say they had a lathe "collecting dust" in the shop and wanted to sell it. That's a common situation, and there are a few good ways to handle it.

Signs your lathe needs service, an upgrade or a new home

Before you decide anything, take an honest look at how the machine is being used:

• It hasn't been turned on in months. Techs work around it, and rotors get replaced by default.
• Results are inconsistent. If the finish isn't clean or the runout readings keep changing, the machine may just need service, new bits or adapters.
• Parts are hard to find. Older models can be tough to support.
• Your work has changed. A shop that's moved toward more on-car work, or more heavy trucks, may need a different type of lathe.

If the machine is in good shape and the shop still does brake work, a service visit may be all it needs. We service lathes on site and in our shop in Sunderland, Ontario. If the machine no longer fits the way you work, it's probably worth more to someone else than it is sitting in your bay.

Trading in or selling your lathe

Moto Solutions buys used shop equipment, especially brake lathes. The process is simple:

1. Email info@motosolutions.ca or call 1-866-236-6008.
2. Send the make and model, the condition, and a few photos of the machine (photos go to info@motosolutions.ca).
3. We'll review the details and get back to you within 1–2 business days with next steps.

You can also start on our trade-in page. If you're upgrading at the same time, we can look at the trade-in and the new machine together.

Buying a used brake lathe: what to check

For a shop that wants to add a lathe, or a second one for a busy bay, used is a reasonable option. A few things to look at:

• Type of lathe. On-the-vehicle lathes machine the rotor on the hub. Bench lathes handle rotors and drums off the vehicle. Browse used on-the-vehicle brake lathes and used bench brake lathes, or see all used brake lathes.
• Condition and history. Each listing says whether the machine has been serviced or is being sold as traded in. Ask for more photos or details if anything is unclear.
• Adapters and accessories. Check what's included, and whether adapters for the vehicles you see most are available.
• Parts and support. Make sure bits, parts and service are still available for that model.

We ship used machines across Canada and worldwide. Freight is quoted separately.

A recent example

This fall, an independent repair shop in Ontario bought a used bench brake lathe from us. Instead of buying new, they went with a used machine that fit their work and their budget, and we booked a delivery and install date for their shop. It's a good fit for a shop that wants to bring rotor and drum machining in-house without the cost of a new machine.

When a new machine makes more sense

Sometimes used isn't the right call. If your shop does a lot of brake work, a new on-car lathe may be worth the investment. New Pro-Cut lathes come with on-site installation and training and a 2-year parts and labour warranty, and we offer free on-site or virtual demonstrations. Trading in your old machine can help offset the cost.

After machining, many shops also protect rotors with Rotor Coater to help keep surfaces from rusting before the vehicle goes back to the customer.

Next steps

If there's a lathe in your shop that nobody uses, or you're thinking about upgrading, send us a few photos at info@motosolutions.ca or call 1-866-236-6008. We'll get back to you within 1–2 business days.

Tell us about your equipment · Shop used brake lathes