Thread: Have a CNC Mill but want manual lathe...should I swap?

Hi Guys,

I've inherited a CNC Mill. It's a MAXNC10 desktop model in good working order and comes with built in card reader/controller + heaps of spare parts including a spare controller and a spare (used) motor. I've also got a separate PC running LinuxCNC with a direct connection to the mill via parallel port. Whilst it is in good working order the mill has been used in a production environment so it is definitely in used condition with lots of scratches, dings and general wear and tear. I'd describe it as a 6 / 10 cosmetically. I'll post some pictures shortly...

Whilst the mill is a cool toy to play with, what I really want is a small bench top type lathe (anything over about 350mm between centers should be OK).

Anyone have a view as to the worth of the Mill and should I just try to sell it as-is or is it worth trying to do a swap with someone who has a small lathe? A new MaxNC10 is worth around $1600 US in this configuration so I would have guessed this one is worth somewhere north of $500AUD and south of a grand but not really sure.

Open to suggestions...

Hi Bammo,

Are you considering selling because you have limited room or limited funds? I ask this because the first question that comes to mind is why not keep it AND buy a small lathe, but I'm sure you have your reasons.

I have no idea what your machine would be worth on the used market so can't help there but you may regret selling it later on.

Cheers,

Simon

Simon - the Minister of Finance says I can't have 2 toys at once taking up space in the shed! I really don't need/use the mill, it's a lathe I want.

Thats a shame. Well, if you have to prioritise then start looking for a lathe/mill combination!

Edit: Hang on there a minute. I just re-read you first post. You inherited the mill? Surely it's of sentimental value to you? I would suggest to her that you cannot bear to part with it but you need a lathe. Put the mill in storage some place that she won't see it and then buy a lathe.

Cheers,

Simon