CNC Mill 4 (with some pics)
by John
Now that I have a couple of days cleaning off the carelessly applied paint, I am prepared to show some photos.
The trouble with a 17 year old machine, even if it has done little work, is that repairs are required before it can be used.
1. New hand wheel
2. Z axis acting strangely. ? encoder faulty, or broken wires.
3. Pneumatic drawbar not working ? needs replacing.
4. Auto lubrication system not functioning. ? relay faulty, other problem.
5. Operator needs considerable training.
The only available space in my workshop was in front of the door
Showing the table, with the tool rests removed, the hand wheels including the broken X axis hand wheel, the turret and the electrical box
The broken X axis hand wheel. replacement from China for $a20, including postage….
Showing the X axis ball screw, the hand wheel gearing, and the coated way (? Teflon)
The control box for the pneumatic power drawbar (not working), and the automatic lubrication pump and reservoir (also not working).
The CNC input control panel. I am still learning how to use this.
johnsmachines 
Very nice. The only “plastic” treatment for ways I know of is called “Turcite”.
john f
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The surface of the ways is quite blue in colour. Is that consistent with Turcite?
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Great to see some photos
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Great looking mill. Hopefully the repairs will not be to complex or expensive. Looking to acquire one myself, but with a basement workshop, that is out of the question for now.
Thanks for posting your progress.
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My mill was advertised as being in excellent condition. Given the number of repairs required, I am thinking that I should have exercised a bit more “let the buyer beware” attitude. At least the ways and ball screws seem to be in good nick.
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Well done John. We would have loved a machine like that at our engineering works in the early 90s. Keep up the good work.
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