Boss Machine Questions R2E3 etc

[csaw]

First of all what is the difference between R2E3, R2E4, R2C4?

I have seen two machines that are both Boss 8 and they look different. The big plastic front on one is about twice as big as the other with more controls. What's the difference?

Thanks

PS where are all these machines that can supposedly be had for a song or for the hauling?

[ichudov]

Originally Posted by csaw First of all what is the difference between R2E3, R2E4, R2C4? I have seen two machines that are both Boss 8 and they look different. The big plastic front on one is about twice as big as the other with more controls. What's the difference? Thanks PS where are all these machines that can supposedly be had for a song or for the hauling?

How much do you consider a song?

i

[csaw]

I would consider the stories I see from free to $500 a "song". I don't actually expect to find one for that, but it appears others are.

EDIT: Should clarify, needing repair or retrofit.

[machintek]

R2E3 Considered a BOSS 8. Available in series 1 and 2. 2 line LCD display made by epson.
Servo motors. Can DNC.
R2E4 BOSS 9. Has a CRT instead of the LCD. Newer than BOSS8. Otherwise basically the same.
R2C3 has a Heidenhain control and Bosch drives. Same iron as above.

George

[ichudov]

Originally Posted by csaw I would consider the stories I see from free to $500 a "song". I don't actually expect to find one for that, but it appears others are. EDIT: Should clarify, needing repair or retrofit.

Should be pretty doable, based on my experience. >):

i

[csaw]

Thanks Machintek, that's exactly what I wanted to know. Now ichudov, to find a DEAL in reasonable driving distance from Florida.

[csaw]

If in my searches I find a Boss 8 or better machine that is in good condition and in working order how much are they worth? My reason (and everyone elses evidently) for wanting to retrofit a machine is so that I can make repairs myself. My fears are that if I spend more on a working machine and it quits it will be expensive to fix and I may have to go with the retrofit and be out the extra money.

Is retrofitting a dead machine a better idea than buying a working machine?

Are the Boss 8s and such good machines when working properly? Expensive to fix?