Lathe to CNC question about X-axis

[Blaat]

Hi all

I own a small lathe that I'm currently converting to CNC.
It's one of those small lathes (Grizzly also has them), they are sold around the world with different brands and colors. But are all the same 'quality'.

I'm busy changing the trapezoidal spindle for ballscrew spindles.
It's easy for the Z-axis. But the X-axis is a bit 'nasty'.

A 16,14 or 12 ballscrew isn't going to fit. Even if I modify the nut.
With the ballscrew nut they are just too big
A 8 or 10mm ballscrew is maybe possible.

The slot where the ballscrew will be installed is 23.5mm deep



I can't make the slot deeper because the V guide lies deeper inside it. I will cut straight trough the guide. Not a good idea....



I can cut the top guide 3mm but is this recommended?
And what kind of endmill would I need to cut some space.


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[ninefinger]

You don't need to put the ballnut in the slot, it can hang out the back or on the front, or move the ballscrew to the right (off the side of the saddle), it will make using the tailstock harder but from what I understand the tailstock is not used much with CNC.
Mike