$6000 complete CNC setup suggestions

[MrWild]

I recognize the cross slide table. I have one. The lead screws didn't impress me at all. Did youn change yours out? If not, how much back lash comenation did you need to use? About on par with a worn out Bridgeport.

I went the cheap ropute and found a worn BP. I didn't know then what I know now. I'd not do that again. I ended up spending $5k for s supermax with tooling. Add $500 for the wiring and rotary phase converter (or $400 for a VFD and wiring) and you're set. You can be into good used iron fior $3,500 and sometimes less if you luck into a deal from a tech college.

I'd rather have a medium priced used real machine, than a high priced benchtop. The tormach does have many fine qualities, but you can have more for less.

[allanjs]

MrWild,

No, I did not change out the lead screws. They do have aprox. .005
backlash. The table was already on the machine. I purchased the complete machine new as pictured about 4 yrs ago.
I only posted my machine as an option for Sectrix as he is looking to buy a bench top mill and is limited to 110V power. I certainly would not compare this machine to a Bridgeport or any "standard sized" floor model knee mill.
Al

[philbur]

What's not real about a Tormach or a Taig for that matter?

"Real machine" is of course a relative term, relative to what you need to achieve. Some would consider a CNC'd Bridgeport nothing more than a toy. Bridgeport phobia can often result in considerable, unnecessary expense. A CNC'd Bridgeport is kinda like Granddad on Viagra, it works after a fashion but was never really meant to be.

Phil

Originally Posted by MrWild I'd rather have a medium priced used real machine, than a high priced benchtop. The Tormach does have many fine qualities, but you can have more for less.

[sansbury]

Do you own a lathe? If not, then set $1000 aside for a lathe and some tooling. If you're generally into "building stuff" you will quickly find it indispensable.

I don't think you could make too big a mistake going with a Taig. If you end up doing smaller stuff it is an excellent machine, and if you outgrow it, well, check the completed listings on eBay to see what they get used. They can be shipped UPS so you will get a good price for it. Most of your tooling can go right to a larger mill and of course all of your skills will transfer fine.

The Smithy version of the KX1 looks interesting too and is well within your price range but it is still a Chinese machine. Similar working envelope to the Taig but a bit more mass. I have an X1 so I have no bias against cheap Chinese machines but they are what they are.

Doing a DIY conversion can be a useful education in itself but if I had $6k now I'd definitely want a turnkey system.