That's looking real nice Ron,

I did make one while ago, a little bigger than a 7x12 mini lathe size. Works rather well .
Now I want to make another much bigger one, very much like yours. The only thing stopping me is finding a suitable block of steel big enough !!
Here was my build if anyone wants another angle on the subject, I warn you, it's a bit long winded but you might get some tips.
http://madmodder.net/index.php?topic=908.0