Hi Guys

I have been looking for a suitable CNC Mill and have some questions on the Smithy 1240 CNC Bed Mill.

(1) The Y Axis Ball Screw and Dovetail Ways do not have any Swarf protection? From looking at the Brochure Picture of the 1240, it's kind of hard to tell if the the Ball Screw might have a telecopic cover? The Dovetail Ways certianly do not have any protection. Does anyone know if the Y Axis Ball Screw is protected?

(2) The Smithy Brochure takes about a "High Speed Geared Belt" arrangement to control the Spindle speeds.

Quote: "Maximum power at low speeds, whisper quiet at even the highest RPM's. Single range variable speed drive takes you from 50 to 4,500 RPM's without stopping to change belts or gears"

This sounds like they are using a variable speed pulley/belt setup? The picture in the brochure is kind of misleading as it shows two levers on the left hand side of the Gear Box like it was still manually shifted? How is the Spindle speed set? With a crank like on the older Bridgeports?

I would be interested in hearing from anyone who has a Smithy 1240 CNC Mill and what they think of them? Thank you for your help.

Regards
Willyb