Metal Type & Size and Lathes

[Hrnts69]

Ok, ilve been reading ALOT on here and iam really confused! Iam looking to build my first Tuber, and ive got a idea, just confused on what metal to use. Ive heard of Music Wire, Solid Stock, Brakeline and Aluminum, but some require differnt welding procedures. Iam wanting to stick witha metal that i can MIG. I dont know how to braze, and i know some of TIG, iam just good at MIG. Iam wanitng to do Solid Stock, but what size??? 1/8, 1/4, 5/16? What size of solid stock would be the best?
Or, explain to me what metal you like and why. Iam just looking at my options.
Also, ive got a chance to buy a lathe for $100. Its not big, prolly not the neccasary size, its from the 1960s, and its got ALOT of gears. Can you explain to me the pros and cons of a Lathe? Iam a 17 year old, that only get paid $150-160 per week, and the $100 takes a big chunk of my paycheck. Iam wanting professional advice on why i should or should not buy the lathe.

Thanks,
Blake
P.S. Sorry for all the questions!

[Hrnts69]

Anybody???

[hellbentrodder]

Do you have any info on the lathe? Brand? size? As far as material for a tuber goes, most people seem to use 3/16" brake line.