Well this is my build log. I wasn't sure if I was going to start one but as a thank you to this FORUM and all the other posts that helped me along the way I felt I should. I have only ever read a FORUM but never posted so if I am doing something wrong or you want me to provide more information just let me know.
After lots of reading/searching I decided to build my machine using CNCRouterParts as my major source. Thankfully I did b/c for me it has provided the product I need to make this successful. I'm not an engineer nor am I engineered minded. I have no prior experience with CNC, CAD or Mach. I literally stumbled upon this website then started exploring. After that I just had a desire to cut some wood or plastic with a CNC machine and get into this. That I have!
My machine dimensions are 48"x 73". This will give me a cutting area of about 33"x64" and approx. 4.5" z axis travel. My table top/spoil board is 36"x73".
These are the parts I am using -
T-Slots from Automation for Less
Gantry:3030 48" (1)
Gantry Risers:3030 5" (2)
Rails:1530 73" (2)
Z Axis:1530 18" (1)
Cold rolled steal from Online Metals
Cold Rolled Rails:1/4" x 2 1/2" x 73" (2)
Cold Rolled Gantry:1/4 x 4" x 48" (1)
Cold Rolled Z axis:1/4 x 4" x 14" (1)
Moore Gears -
Gear Racks: 72" but they ship 73" (2)
McMaster-Carr
Acme 5 start screw 1/2"
CNC Router Parts
Everything else - high z plate, rack and pinion for NEMA34, mounting plate for Z axis, gantry interface plate plate(s), thrust bearing, five start nut, coupler, motors, electronics, carriages, rack clamps
Unistrut for supporting frame
Porter cable router
K2CNC
Router Mount
KentCNc
Dust Shoe
Prescise Bits
Collets
End Mills
More to follow........