Convert HF RE: 44142 3in1 lathe or sell and buy a G0602 ??

[David Bord]

I have a HF 44142 3in1 machine that I was going to sell and buy a Grizzly G0602 to convert to CNC.



I was going to sell the 44142 for about $750 and buy the G0602 for $1200 including shipping, a $350 difference in cost. Should I just convert the HF 44142 to CNC, or is the G0602 worth the extra cost if my ultimate goal is to CNC it. I would use zero backlash rolled ball screws and want a accurate machine.

Im only interested in the convert the Lathe Portion if I kept the HF machine. I already have a Tormach CNC mill.

David

[ninefinger]

David,

I'd say just cnc it. I have a very similar if not identical machine and I've been contemplating the same question. If you are going to convert to cnc then I don't know what advantage the G0602 gives you? They are nearly the same in dimensions of length and swing. The only reason to sell of the 3-in-1 to get a new machine is to go up (or down) in size. All the threading gearbox options are redundant for cnc, and you'll probably want to convert the spindle motor to variable speed too.

For me I'm keeping mine and decapitating it - I won't need the mill part once (if?) my IH clone shows up.

If I was looking for a new (or used) lathe to cnc I'd want to find one with a cam lock spindle for easier chuck changes.

Mike

[hoss2006]

I'd agree with Mike, the G0602 isn't going to gain you anything over what you have except for a 1/4 HP.
You'll have more capacity with your HF and you won't have to wait to get started since grizzly is usually back ordered.
Take the mill head off and make a drill press.
Hoss