[bigworm40]

Ladies and Gentlemen,
I'm looking for a unit that will accept at minimum a 2" through hole. So far I have found the two listed below. I have no experience with these at all. My budget is $4K. I'd like to use it with mig and tig. Any advice would be great.

https://www.trick-tools.com/Baileigh-WP ... huck-12557

https://www.trick-tools.com/Roto-Star-3 ... oto3-10843

[cj737]

You can certainly fabricate a positioner for lots less than that. Be absolutely certain that you truly require a “thru hole” and that the work setup requires that. Meaning, very often you clamp the work only in the chuck, and nothing protrudes through; all the material is outside the chuck.

3-jaw chucks are pretty cheap, I think Certiflat sells a frame kit for $300 and then you simply buy a motor and controller. You should be under $1,000. You could even get an inexpensive VFD to control a used motor to have infinite control of the speed.

[LtBadd]

Even if you have a long diameter to weld on, you can make something like a steady rest, as found on a lathe to support the shaft.
I've made 2 different rotators, not difficult, but if you have the production work buying may be the right choice for you

[bigworm40]

I need a thru hole.

[cj737]

So simply buy a 3-jaw with the orifice diameter you require and fab one up. Even if you bought the Certiflat Kit, you could easily drill the hole yourself to accommodate your requirements.

[bigworm40]

As much as I appreciate all the advice, I'm not looking to build one. I have no time. I need something with a motor that has over a 2" thru hole. If any one here has any experience please chime in.

[LtBadd]

The Baileigh is the better of the 2 that you posted a link to, IMO. It includes the foot pedal and an infinite adjustment between 90* and 180*, the other unit has stops at every 15* between 90* and 180*