[eartaker]

Well since converting the ZX45 to CNC I have had no use for my X2. I have seen some have taken the head off of the 7X10-12 lathe for a 4th axis but from all of the ones I have seen everyone is using the stepper/servo motor to hold the spindle in place. I would like to implement some type of breaking system but not sure how or if anyone has done this. Any thoughts? I was thinking of using an air cylinder to release some sort of clutch style lock.

[gd.marsh]

Jermie,

I have an old x2 head too & was planning on doing the same thing with it but the biggest problem with R8 is you can't pass anything through the spindle.
I've considered doing Hoss' mod & putting a 5C spindle in place of the R8 ..
A little more work, but a much nicer finished product ..
Another drawback is that you can't mount it facing up like a Rotary table.
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions!

What ever you do be sure to post lots of pics ...

[eartaker]

Gary true and that is something I didn't think about. I do also have the option of using the head from my 7x10 lathe but have thought about converting it to CNC rather than pulling it apart.

[endo47]

Jermie,
Check out Steve's cool 4th axis.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glYDe94hxb0]4th Axis pneumatic spindle lock demonstration - YouTube[/ame]

Ron