Looking at a used Tormach

[BIG IGG]

I’m going to go look at a used 1100 PCNC and I was wondering how can you tell a series 1 from a series 2 or even a series 3.

[Willyb]

Hi BIG IGG

You can tell by the Serial Number.

Series I - 1 to 1325
Series II - 1326 to 1999
Series III - 2000+

Hope this helps.

Willy

[odonatas]

I don't think you can just go by serial number since many people seem to upgrade their machines. You'll have to ask the seller or maybe Tormach will give you that information.

[TXFred]

You can also tell by the physical equipment. I think that this list is accurate. I'm sure that I'll be corrected if I'm wrong.

Series 1. No Z axis brake. Old style vector drive.

Series 2. Z axis brake. New vector drive.

Series 3. Leadshine steppers. Drivers look different. Rapids are faster. Sound is noticeably different (better sounding).

If it's an older mill that has upgrades, I'm sure that the seller will let you know, since the upgrades are selling points.

Frederic

[BIG IGG]

Thanks. I will look at the serial number and ask the seller as well. I hope i get it, i really want to start making chips!

[RTP_Burnsville]

My Series I came with a Z axis brake.... It was one of the last of that series though.

Robert

[Steve Seebold]

I would think for the small difference in price between a new machine and a used one, I would go for the new one.

[shred]

A number of the Series 1's came with the Z-brake. Series 1s say "PCNC 1100 / Personal CNC" or some such on the electronics cabinet if there is any paint left.

Series 2's say "Series II" on the cabinet. I think (but have never seen one) Series 3 say "Series 3" there.

Some Series 1's have a smaller table. IIRC that is the only thing that can't be cost-effectively upgraded all the way to effectively a S3.

There have been two 'Deluxe' stands over time, one somewhat taller than the other.

A quick look at the serial number and a flip through the Tormach tech sheets should let you know what you have and what's been done to it. You can probably call them with the SN and get an idea what's been done as well.