4th Axis Drive...User Install?

[behindpropeller]

Curious if it is possible to install the 4th axis drive myself?

Seems like the HAAS add ons are a plug and play with ample directions.

Thanks

[gonc]

I was told it was a pretty simple install. I'm going to do it on my new Mini Mill. The local Haas service center has always helped me with repair issues over the phone and said they would help with the 4th axis drive if need be. Probably will not do it for a few more months since my other two machines already have 4th axis. Besides, I'm sure there is plenty of help here on the board is case you get in a jam.

[Geof]

Based on my experience, yes and no. Although it is not really my experience, it is looking over the shoulder of the tech doing the install. One machine on which I had the 4th axis installed after purchase was real pain and needed a complete software reload. Another was a case of plug, plug, key press, key press and everything worked fine.

But are you going to save much? I thought the price for all the bits and pieces included installation; I know it did in my cases.

[behindpropeller]

But are you going to save much? I thought the price for all the bits and pieces included installation; I know it did in my cases.

I don't know yet. I'm going to have them quote both ways.

Tim

[hercules]

My HFO told me about 6 months ago that install was not included in the price of the parts. At that time they wanted an extra $800 for the install.

[haastec]

How old is your machine? Are you looking at brush or brushless rotary?

Either way it should be pretty straight forward.

[behindpropeller]

Our machine is a 2008, just picked up a brushless HRT210 for it.

Tim

[haastec]

If you are comfortable working on your machine then you should be able to handle the install without any problem.

You are probably looking at installing a cable connector from the side of the cabinet and plugging that into a pcb.

Install the servo amp with a cable from the amp to the mocon pcb and wires to connect into the DC Buss

Plug in your rotary

Turn machine on and activate 4th Axis parameter if not already turned on (you will need a code)

Select rotary from the list in settings.

Start machining

I may have forgotten a thing or two but take your time and you should be good. Let me, or your HFO, know if you have questions or issues.

Good luck.

[behindpropeller]

Thanks!

My dad is an EE so I'm not worried about the install. I will post here with pictures as I go.

Tim

[hercules]

Hey behindpropeller, I know this is a bit of an old thread but I wanted to ask if you ever did the 4th axis wiring install. I was finally ready to purchase the wiring and an HRT 160 last week but when talking with my HFO to arrange the order they are now telling me that the install for just the wiring kit will be $1200. Then mabe another hour or two service charge to set up the rotary. Obviously I'd like to do it myself if I can and save that cash. My mill is only a few years old and the install would be for a brushless unit so it would be similar to yours if you ever did it.

[underthetire]

I just did one last week on our TM2. Easy as can be. Came with instructions as well.

[behindpropeller]

I never pulled the trigger on the kit.

The part I had lined up to do it on is currently on hold.

Under the tire..... What is the current cost of the wiring/boards?

Thanks

Tim