Hello,
I bought some older CNC`s I while ago, and looking back this is what I will do next time around if buying a lathe and a horizontal (or anything else CNC):
1. Machines preferred to be of same make and identical controller. Takes less time to learn the programming and postprocessor setup.
If the controller/servo on one machine goes bad you can interchange parts and find the error easier.
2. Find out sparepart prices on selected hardware and electronics and compare. I had quotes on my Cincinnati for $2000 for a memory board. A cheap machine is not always cheap when you have to fix it! Even availability may be an issue if the machine is old.
3. Stay away from oddball machines, go for the recognised brands. If you have to close down they are easier to sell.
4. Never buy anything that is not in working order even if it is "just a contact breaker costing $10". See the machines working. Even a newer stored machine will give you trouble if standing idle for some time.
5. Buying a machine from a professional seller will cost you more, but you can go back and kick ass if something goes wrong. (within a relatively short period).
Good luck with your machines!
regards
John  |