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4GSR
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If you can't get someone on your side, and you said it is under power, get the owner to run the spindle thru all of it's speeds. Take note of any abnormal noises or metal to metal grinding noise that just doesn't sound good. On table speeds, run thru most of the feeds in all X-Y-Z directions as well as rapids in all directions. Either they work or they don't. If they don't work in any or all of the speeds or rapids, walk away! Also, while the motor is running, look for oil dripping in the sight glass on the spindle head and on side of the column. This will tell you if there is oil circulating to all of the critical points of oiling. Should be one on the saddle, too, just been too long ago to remember these things.
As for the slides, run your finger across the bearing surfaces. If you feel ridges, gouges, etc., it has wear. May not show all of it's original spotting marks, but should give you an indication of how much wear it has. Not always a deal breaker, but something to keep in the back of your mind. Got to remember this mill is over 70 years old and probably has had a hard life, especially in it's first 10 years of life. It's not going to be perfect, but it may be good enough to resurface heads with and such. Take lots of pictures, report back let us look at what you found. Ken
As for the slides, run your finger across the bearing surfaces. If you feel ridges, gouges, etc., it has wear. May not show all of it's original spotting marks, but should give you an indication of how much wear it has. Not always a deal breaker, but something to keep in the back of your mind. Got to remember this mill is over 70 years old and probably has had a hard life, especially in it's first 10 years of life. It's not going to be perfect, but it may be good enough to resurface heads with and such. Take lots of pictures, report back let us look at what you found. Ken
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