I dont think you could get mach 3 working on a Fadal and say it works better than the 88. Isnt the -3 and lower still 5 axis capable? That table the guy built looks like a very light duty non full 5 axis table. This means the table will move into position but not move while your cutting so you have a 5 axis indexer not full 5 axis machine. To add another axis (not index) to a machine it must be capable of moving while your cutting. The Fadal 5th axis tables are expensive but your machine should be able to be used with one. Be aware that you may not have any more than 20"s from spindle to table travel so you are limited there.
BTW a VMC40 (1988) for 10K isnt a fantastic bargain. You can get much more machine for around the same dollar.
__________________ We have had good luck with our Fadals milling mostly soft steel and aluminum up to 5 axis. We are always looking for spare parts  If you have a broken down Fadal give a shout. |