Yeah sometimes Harbor Freight stuff is not exactly the best quality.
I think I would spend the extra 100 bucks and get this Grizzly lathe.
http://www.grizzly.com/products/item...mnumber=G8688&
Shipping is probably cheaper on Amazon.com though.
If the 1 inch difference doesn't work for you then I am sure you can probably find a different brand for around the same price!