Quote Originally Posted by AndyUK View Post
The axis can appear to move on the computer but not in reality because it's not a closed loop - the commands are sent from Mach, but it just has to trust that they happened. The problem will be somewhre from the CS Labs controller down to the motor (narrowed down real far, eh?) I'd swap over some components between axis to see what works and what doesn't - e.g. connect Z motor to Y drive
Thanks Andy, that makes sense, I will try swapping things around and see if I can figure out where the fault is... and take your point on 360, although I think I could work it out eventually, it’s just getting it and MACH set up with the machine that I can’t figure out. Aspire looks great but it was the £1500 price tag that put me off! If the machine worked and made some money then maybe I could justify it one day!!

Quote Originally Posted by JAZZCNC View Post
Joe, it's probably the Z-axis drive that's not switched on, does it light up.? If not check the fuses if you have them. If the machines not been stored in damp conditions then I can't imagine the drives gone faulty.

Like Andy says don't let it get you down and if you still have my number give me a ring, I'll help you get Mach3 setup if it's still giving you headache.
Unfortunately I don’t think it is that simple. At first I thought it was just because I had isolated the drive while I was working on it previously, but it’s not that. The drive turns on and is delivering power to the motor on z as you can hear it and it resists you pulling on the belt (I can move the axis manually by pulling on the belt when it’s off). It is pretty dry in the garage and it has been sealed up in the cabinet since it was last on...

To be honest, Dean, I would really appreciate a bit of your time to get it set up properly. I feel like I’m going to struggle to ever get it up and running without some expert input! I’ll drop you a DM if that’s alright.

The encouragement from both of you is much appreciated!