Question about Buying an older Bridgeport

[watsonstudios]

Someday in the near future I would like to purchase an older Bridgeport and stay in the 2000 - 3000 price range. If the machine has worn ways or excessive backlash, is it possible to fix or re-build? Can the ways be replaced or re-surfaced? I don't know a lot about these mills so I don't know if this stuff is fixable. I'm guessing the leadscrews or whatever is used in the axis travel can be replaced but what if the ways are sloppy? Is it feasable to buy a cheaper mill and fix it or pay more for one that is tight and acceptable backlash?

Thanks,

Jon

[holbieone]

you can get a ball screw set for around $900.00

and the ways scrape for $750 to $2500(depending on wear)

if the machine is that worn i would not pay more then $1000