Re: 1100M vs. used Haas Mini Mill or TM-0
Lead times in the PNW are crazy right now, and I think this is true across the world right now. Just getting materials has been hit & miss. We can't even keep up with the backorders right now, but are starting to get caught up.
I personally have a theory about a business plans, it's simple really. Make stuff, get paid. Always worked for me anyway. I originally bought machine tools for building a R&D project, and it just kind of expanded from there. Long story. But for the last 50 years or so I have either owned or had free access to machine tools for whatever I needed to do, really nice to have around, even if just to keep my lawnmower running. Ya gotta start somewhere.
I never worry about old controls on machine tools, it's really easy and relatively inexpensive to upgrade to modern controls, even going to industrial class controls. I've done it several times. In fact, I personally would rather buy a mechanically good machine tool with dead controls, you can buy them for scrap prices.
In general you want a 3 phase spindle motor, they can be run with an inexpensive VFD on single phase (up to about 5 HP), or worst case a rotary phase converter for higher HP motors. (Yes I know the Haas 7.5 HP spindles will run on 240V single phase power) You only need to be mindful of your available power. If you missed it, take a look at my previous post https://www.cnczone.com/forums/torma...ml#post2470818
From my personal experience, I guess the bottom line is: Buy more machine than you think you need right now, but don't pay a lot for it.
Jim Dawson
Sandy, Oregon, USA