The Large Table and Solid Column upgrade parts arrived today. It comes in two boxes; one has the column, the 20 tpi X and Y axis lead screws and misc. bolts and parts. The big box contained a smaller wooded crate, well protected by the world's supply of bubble wrap. Once I got the crate out and cut the bands, I popped it open and there, bolted to the bottom, was the large table. Covered in the required goop of course.
I broke it down to clean it and installed the 20 tpi screws. I then started to figure out how to install my DRO scales as things are just a little different on this base. I mounted the X-axis to the rear of the table; didn't lose any real travel. The Y was installed on the right side on the old mill but was in the way of the lock. I'm going to move it to the left side. I'll then figure out the Z-axis. Luckily, even with the extended travel my existing scales look like they'll work. I need to wire and complete the X-axis install before I mount the column; it will be easier that way.
As part of this upgrade, I also replaced my Z-axis feed gear and the spindle bearings. As I already had the belt drive, I also removed all the unused gears and speed lever. I used SFK Bearings, 6206-2RS. I looked into AC bearings but they were $100 apiece and I couldn't swing that.
Once I completed the head rebuild, I laid the new column flat on the bench and installed the head. I checked for spindle to column alignment and found it to be within about .001 on both axis' during the entire z-axis travel. I can live with that.
I'll finish it up tomorrow and get more pictures posted, but what I have so far are in Photos Large Table Upgrade and Solid Column
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