I am planning on converting a Clausing 12"x24" lathe. 2hp spindle motor. My question is whether or not to use a large enough stepper to drive the lead and cross feed screws rather than reducing them with pulleys. I have a 78VDC unregulated power supply and plan to use Gecko stepper drives.

I'm in the research mode right now. I would rather match up everything for good reliable peformance. I went to Microkinetics website to get an idea what they use for their similar sized lathe.

Any advice and direction appreciated. I want to buy the steppers and drivers once and set up once. :-)