Complete Newbie Questions

[gotfdirtball]

Been lurking around for a while and finally decided to start my first project. I want to start out simple by converting a small (8" X 8") cross slide to use on my bridgeport.

Here's the plan:

2 Keling KL23H284-35-4B 387 oz-in steppers
Gecko G540
Keling KL-350-48 48V/7.3A Power Supply

I'm not planning to replace the lead screws with ball screws. Can I attach directly to the screws via couplings with these motors or should I compensate for not switching to ball screws by gear reducing the motor with 1:2 or 1:4 pulleys? Should I step up to the 495 oz-in motors and a bigger power supply? Am I even headed in the right direction with this setup? Not really worried about speed or accuracy so much as just getting my feet wet with this first project.

Any help greatly appreciated.

[Crevice Reamer]

Hi gotfdirtball. I see you have been doing some homework. Nice first post and good parts selection!

Ballscrews are usually 5 TPI. Depending on how much more than that your screws are, you may already be geared 2 or 3 to 1 by comparison. The 387s should be more than enough to direct drive an 8 inch table.

You may have to lathe the ends of the screws to accept couplings or pulleys though.

CR.