Thanks my only real concern is that the CHNC II is billed as a super precision lathe, not that I am doing anything super precision, but I hate to introduce any additional error if it isn't necessary. When emailing with Centroid, the recommended the Hickory system and the Leadshine EL7 AC servos. If having the encoders on the motor is an ok option, it appears to be a pretty simple retrofit solution. The only other issue to overcome is that I want to use the Fanuc AC Spindle Drive and Motor, but looking at the Centroid retrofit manual, it looks like that would work as well.

I did ask them if they have a motor that will work with the Hickory controller that has a separate encoder so it could be mounted on the screw, but I haven't heard back from them yet. There are only certain motors that will work with Hickory at this time. I am not sure what is required to get the Leadshine motors mounted in place of the Siemens DC servos yet. Still looking for a drawing of the motors.

Thanks for the thoughts, Gary