Old used CNC mill question

[Demon440]

Hello all, Im thinking about buying a old used CNC mill. I have a good bit of experience programming and using $250,000+ machines from work, but now I want something for home. And I would like it to cost somewhere about $7k or under would be good. Anyway I have been looking at this 1988 Bridgeport Interact 412. http://www.premierequipment.com/inde...Interact%20412
The asking price is only $4500. But my questions are; could I do 3 axes mold making with this type machine. Also what if it has a computer problem, like the board dies? Would it be possible to replace the controller with a PC? Any other advice would be appreciated.

[jackson]

the machine its self looks like its in good shape and premier i belive goes through and servce all machines before they sell them but as for the programing i'm not familiar with that controlle but the price is about right, but they should hook it up to power and let you see it run

[snakebit95]

When I was researching machines of that nature, I found that everybody recommended the DX32 control systems instead of the Heidiman <sp?> If memory serves me correctly, most of the DX32 stuff was PC based and could easily be replaced by PC parts; whereas the Heidiman was not and was difficult to program and obtain repair parts for. Based on the link you posted, it looks like part of the tool-changer is missing in one of the photos. Before you decide, you may want to ask about that. You may also want to call Bridgeport and see if the machine is still supported via parts. Most of the time, the low price is low for a reason. Good Luck with your search!!

[jackson]

If thats not the mill you want you can always call dealers and tell them what your looking for and the money you want to spend and they can find you something.

[Demon440]

Thanks for the advice guys.