Pm-932 Cnc Conversion Build

I don't have much free space for maneuvering a lift so I did the table (X & Y) first. Remove the handles, bearing end blocks and gib. Slide the table to the left until you can lift it off the saddle. I can do it by myself but an extra set of hands is nice to have.

For the head I made a support out of 2x wood blocks and lowered the head until it was fully supported. Removed the 3 nuts connecting the head to the slide and ran the table forward to disengage. I left the head on the table while I did the Z. Makes it easy to re-install the head. I also did not remove the column from the base. It did make drilling the top of the column with a 4" hole saw while standing on a ladder interesting. :cautious:
 
Hi Folks!
Long time no update due to funds and a change of plans. I got my bonus from work so it's time to purchase the rest of the parts I need for the conversion.
Looking at @TomS and @jbolt build logs it appears they're both using different sized ball screws.

TomS if I recall you're using
2005 on the Z axis
and 1605 on the X & Y axis

Jbolt
I recall is using 2005 on all axis
but would have swapped out to a 2505 for the Z axis.

Since I already have the 1600oz steppers for the X and the Y and will be ordering the stepper (4200oz) for the Z axis should I go with all 2005 for all axis or should I go with 1605 or 2005 for the X and Y axis and 2505 for the Z?

Also I know this will differ but what were the rough or exact lengths for each axis when you ordered?

Any information is highly appreciated :)

Yes, I used 1605's on the X and Y and a 2005 on the Z. They are working just fine but if I had to do it over again I would do it the way jbolt did.

Tom S.
 
Quick question for everyone that has done a build with the rong-fu sized machines. What did you use to lift the head and the table off safely? Engine hoist?

I used a engine hoist to remove the head and column. The table is a bit heavy but one person can lift it. Two people doing it is better.

Tom S.
 
I don't have much free space for maneuvering a lift so I did the table (X & Y) first. Remove the handles, bearing end blocks and gib. Slide the table to the left until you can lift it off the saddle. I can do it by myself but an extra set of hands is nice to have.

For the head I made a support out of 2x wood blocks and lowered the head until it was fully supported. Removed the 3 nuts connecting the head to the slide and ran the table forward to disengage. I left the head on the table while I did the Z. Makes it easy to re-install the head. I also did not remove the column from the base. It did make drilling the top of the column with a 4" hole saw while standing on a ladder interesting. :cautious:

Haha okay good to know I can do it without one since I have a one car garage and space for one of those engine cranes would have to end up in the kitchen lol

Yes, I used 1605's on the X and Y and a 2005 on the Z. They are working just fine but if I had to do it over again I would do it the way jbolt did.

Tom S.

Perfect! Thanks Tom

I used a engine hoist to remove the head and column. The table is a bit heavy but one person can lift it. Two people doing it is better.

Tom S.
Thanks Tom for the response, I figured it would be nicer to use an engine crane but if I can go without it I'm going to try and do so due to space.

Also I just wanted to thank you all for helping me out, it makes builds like this go much easier and gives me some guidelines to follow.
 
How much do you guys have in a "pieced together" system like this. Minus the computer?
 
How much do you guys have in a "pieced together" system like this. Minus the computer?
So far (and mine is not completed just need the ball screws next) is about a little over 1500, Add the ball screws and I'll be near 1900 mark but I'm sure other things will come up during the build so it will be more.

Take in mind all of our numbers will be different as we all have different ball screw sizes and different electronics and materials utilized.

This number is also without the cost of the machine obviously.
 
Thanks. I have an extensive CAD background, and could be much more dangerous with a CNC setup than I can by hand. It is something I eventually want to pursue.
 
How much do you guys have in a "pieced together" system like this. Minus the computer?

I had about $4,600 invested including the milling machine. That was a couple of years ago. Since then I've made several improvements that have increased the bottom line. I'm mentioning this because you will find that after getting your conversion up and running there will be several improvements you want to incorporate into your build. It seems to be never ending but that's part of the fun in my opinion.

Tom S.
 
Back
Top