It seems like the motor / speed control is a common issue with the 7" and 8" mini lathes, but I don't see many motor / speed control projects discussed.
I follow several different small lathe forums as I find info for one is often useful for another.
Motor swaps, are a common topic of discussion with other lathes from Unimats to 9x20.
Am I just not noticing this here, or is this just not a popular mod with these lathes for some reason.