I need to connect two old Anilam System A-10 scales and a BEI 127 ppr with index rotary encoder to a PC, which will be running Linux CNC.

Scales and encoder are TTL quadrature output. Ballscrews are all 5 tpi.

I have a TECO vfd with their RS232 module to control spindle on/off/reverse, if LCNC can work with it.

I'd like to have 4 axis stepper control/feedback capability for future addition of a 4th axis, lube pump control, limit switch inputs for 3 or 4 axes, and an input for a tool length setting sensor, and of course an e-stop input.

Budget? Small. I shopped around a lot, patiently waited for deals and got all the new bearings and belts (not normally cheap brands) to rebuild the variable speed drive on the mill head for a bit under $100. Then I had to turn a new plastic bushing for the motor sheave because some time back the whole VS drive industry quit using 35mm keyed shafts on the motor sheaves and that bushing is unobtainable. (Can get smaller bushings for lower HP Bridgeport, but not 35mm for old 3HP asian mills!)