BobLWeiss: My 'real job' is in software development and graphics, so I have access to some modeling packages that we no longer use at the office. I'll probably use 3D Studio MAX or CorelDraw for my modeling, and I will most likely pay to register Mach2 as my driver. Any recommendations on a DXF->GCode converter?
For the cutter, I already have a dewalt heavy duty cut out tool, and a dewalt 2.25 HP router...as well as a dremel. I would prefer an off the shelf solution versus building a spindle if possible. I think my main goals will be some basic pen plotting, creating some 3D shapes in MDF, and hopefully a few circuit boards.
jgro: Thanks for the feedback, I should really be thanking you
. I saw your use of the bolts to hold the bushings in and I actually predrilled most of the MDF around the bushings to accept a bolt to hold the bushing in place. I did drill the holes for the bushings just one size too small, and after shellacing the holes, the bushings are a tight friction fit. I think my plan in the end is to pull them all out before I paint the whole thing, then go ahead and secure them with bolts as you did as an extra precaution.
I did have a question...why did you choose to go with 'skate bearings' on your X axis? Was it so you could support the 1" drill rod from the bottom? I'm currently planning on using the 1" oilite bushings on my X just because they don't seem like they will carry much weight, but I could be wrong.