Lms 3990 Mini Mill... Upgrades

intrepid

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I have decided to buy the LMS 3990 mini mill. I plan to add the table feed and column spacer for added work height. Those who have this machine or are also planning to get it, Are there any other upgrades you would do to the machine? Not talking about tooling accessories, rather the machine itself.
 
Wow, maybe not many have or use this mill. I thought it was popular, maybe not.
 
There are some LMS owners here. I’m one but I don’t have a 3990 mill that you’re asking about. I don’t know why there isn’t an LMS subforum among the multitude of other manufacturer/vendor subforums. You might try posting your question in one or more of these.

Asian Mills & Lathes
Charter Oak Automation Machines (Charter Oak CNC Mills & Little Machine Shop machines)
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Questions & Answers

Tom
 
I have a LMS 3990 and PM-727M. I find having the LMS mill very handy for smaller work.
 
I have a LMS 3990 and PM-727M. I find having the LMS mill very handy for smaller work.
Hi GR,
Thanks for responding. I've downsized very much and will only be doing small projects and some hobby model things now. However, since this will be my only mill I would like to make it as universal as possible. Have you done any modifications to your mill? I plan to add a column spacer, spindle lock, and table feed. Maybe later a DRO. Since I will be reshipping it overseas to my retirement home once I receive it, I would like to purchase whatever modify pieces I need all at once. I have plenty of R8 tooling so that is not a problem. Do you plan any mods or see any needs for the machine?
 
First thing I did was add iGaging Absolute DRO for all axis. Second was an air spring to help lift the head and eliminate head drop.

I am currently considering / planning converting it to CNC.
 
I was just browsing through the sub forums and found this thread, I recently bought a Canadian version of the LMS 3960, (Busy Bee Craftex CX-612) , I love milling with this little machine but it didn't take me long to figure out what immediate upgrades it needs ,first and foremost is installing XYZ digital readouts, there are a couple of DRO kits available but I'm not sure if I must first replace the torsion spring to an air strut in order to free up some needed space for the Z DRO sensor (Z axis) or if it can be placed on the right side of the column?
Anyhow, I think the biggest improvement we can make for this mini mill is to install a DRO kit and be done with calculating in 1/16"s. as far as installing a gas strut, it seems to be an easy conversion ,MLS sells the whole kit for $50,I'm wondering if I should buy the kit or just buy the necessary parts and machine the brackets myself.

Best of luck to you Intrepid, hope you manage to do all the upgrades you need but I think the two I mentioned (DRO/ spring conversion) will make a huge difference in the performance of any mini mill.
 
You should immediately add a DRO since it makes the machine soooooooooooooooo much nicer to use. Check out the Android tablet based TouchDRO system. It's inexpensive to make, very full featured, and wonderful to us. Having a DRO is indescribably better than counting handwheel turns and dealing with backlash.

My other mods:
http://benchtopmachineshop.blogspot.com/

You can also build a nice power table feed for under $50. I also highly recommend modifying the gibs as it helps rigidity and makes it smoother. Also add a spindle light since it's pretty cheap and easy. But seriously, get a DRO.
 
First thing I did was add iGaging Absolute DRO for all axis. Second was an air spring to help lift the head and eliminate head drop.

I am currently considering / planning converting it to CNC.

I was going to do a DRO later but maybe I should consider it sooner.
The LMS 3990 states it has a gas strut. Is that different from the air spring? The picture of the air spring conversion looks like a gas strut.

Danny
Laguna, Philippines
 
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