Denford Starmill - replacing spindle

[Doddy]

@andy_con:

Either solution - slaved second spindle or replacing the head housing - I'd look to leave the original spindle motor in as a dead-weight counterbalance, the new chinese water cooled spindle being directly mounted in place of the spindle (or offset). I don't see any impact on Z travel.

Re. frame, yes, it's a stiff little bugger. I'll try to get a photo over the weekend - but it's a bit of a hybrid - the previous owner removed the ATC at some point, reworked/refurbed the spindle and bearings).

Raise the head? I'm not sure I understand what you mean... maybe a photo is in order

@JAZZCNC:

With the limited y-travel I'm pretty sure that I couldn't mill the complete back bracket as a one-er, so it'd be a challenge to get the two sides to the dovetail perfectly parallel, and factoring in the gib strip. Also, if cutting steel, it's a big lump for a small machine. Maybe I'm making excuses and avoiding the hard work. I did have a quick look out for any machines being broken, and will probably keep an eye out, but these things are getting a little rare.

@andy_con (2)

I've not got to the motor - it's inside the casting, I could make an effort and break it down, but the laser/IR RPM thing I have claimed just shy of 3k.

@uli12us:

Replacing the existing spindle with a new one?, it's do-able, and probably a whole lot easier. I might ponder this option. I would prefer a much bigger collet system - ER20 or ER25 would work (and I have ER25 collets); but, it's easier to source a spindle motor than a spindle. Okay, I have a lathe, so it could be a winter project to turn a spindle myself (and somehow mount the collet holder, whilst maintaining a level of precision). Interesting option, though I fear more complex than the alternatives. I'd like to retain the strength to cut metal, so nothing too small... I'll have to go into uncharted waters and look at bearing options.

Okay, I'll try to remember to post pictures fri/sat, see if that helps ideas to converge.