Hi, I am just getting interested into being able to do CNC. I have been reading on the site and found lots of great info. I would like some suggestions on an idea I have. A while back I got a carving system at an estate sale. You traced a template and it carved (with a router) it had a pantograph attachment so you could enlarge or reduce the image. I want to know if you guys think converting this thing to CNC might be practical. It's made of steel and I think intended to carve 24x24 signs (it's actually like 33" deep and 44" wide) All the bearing and slides are great, I figured would make a good start for a frame. just need to create a Z axis.

Not a real good picture, but maybe you get the idea. let me know if you think it's a good start or I should just start from scratch.

Thanks!

edit: found a few more pics

I'd say give it a go. Worst case it'll be a little loose or flex too much. Perhaps choose a lightweight spindle of some sort. You've got a good base for starting your CNC education.

Once you get some steppers moving the thing I'm pretty sure you'll be hooked.

thanks, it seems very solid. I just found some screw in an old non working table saw. they were used to change the angle and height of the blade. I thought I'd temporarily attach them just to see how it would do, the only give about 10-12 inches of travel. but figured it would give me an idea of how it would work out.