Hi All, I really appreciate all the feedback so far. I'd still welcome any
advise on the original questions. It would be really helpful.

- Gerry

--- In SherlineCNC@yahoogroups.com, "goodoljer" <gvowles@...> wrote:
>
> Hello,
>
> I am looking to source a Sherline 6200/10 CNC Ultimate Machine Shop Package
plus 4th Axis (CNC Indexer) and additional accessories. My decision is to go
with Mach3 plus its upgraded wizards and related hardware/plugins such as the
SmoothStepper. My goal is to have a highly dependable and accurate setup, not
the most leading (bleeding) edge one. Being new to CNC I have a few questions
so, with the greatest respect for those whose interests and expertise lie in
building a setup, electronics or saving maximum dollars, please accept that my
interest and need is in having a setup which provides a means to an end from the
get-go. I have some things that I need to build "with" a system that's as ready
to go as possible, with the lowest possible learning curve (wizards) and good
quality. Thanks so much in advance for understanding this.
>
>
> 1. Can anyone recommend a reputable, established system supplier(s) who can
sell me a complete, turn-key system WITHOUT trying to switch me to their own or
some other control software and operating system? Unfortunately, a couple of the
well known suppliers I've tried have chosen to not respond to my requests
because I specified Mach3 only. Perhaps business is really good for them right
now, which is great news in a bad economy.
>
>
> 2. I'm considering switching the lead screws to Kerk lead screws (not ball
screws) and anti-backlash nuts. Has anyone actually done this on a Sherline CNC
setup and, more importantly, was it worth it for you and in what ways?
>
>
> 3. I'm considering bolting the mill and lathe onto marble flat surfaces to
maximize rigidity and accuracy. Again, has anyone done this or something similar
(without the need for shimming) and was it worth it?
>
>
> 4. I'm wondering what the most suitable size of stepper motor is. I'm looking
for good (but not crazy) speed and want to minimize the possibility of lost
steps. Also, good quality. Vexta seem to be the best. Does anyone have
experience with these on a Sherline setup? Are there other highly rated ones,
perhaps Rex? What I've read is that it will cost a few bucks more but the best
combination for better speeds and decently sustained torque will come from
bipolar motors operating in parallel mode.
>
> 5. Can a high output power supply & controller setup be used to safely drive
these small systems? I'm impressed with the Novakon SmartDrive which comes with
the computer built into the box and the full, licensed version of Mach 3
preloaded. It comes with four Gecko 203's. However, here's the key question - it
provides up to 75 volts to each motor and I simply don't know enough about
electricity and electronics to know whether this would turn Sherline machines
into spaghetti, burn up the steppers or what. I'm not questioning whether or not
I need this much power to run a Sherline, we know I don't :-) Rather, it is a
question of whether or not I can do it safely and what the results are likely to
be. Can someone with expertise in this field provide some guidance in lay terms
on this question?
>
>
> 6. While I do want to be careful about spending, My priority is not looking to
save a few bucks here and there by cutting corners, building the system myself,
going with the lowest cost steppers, drivers, connectors, etc. However, that
said, I do want to get quotes because I'm aware that a number of suppliers offer
sizable discounts, especially if they are providing complete, turn-key packages.
>
>
> Thanks kindly in advance for your advise, it's much appreciated.
>