I'd like to tighten up my z-axis ball nut mount. I dont want to remove the whole assembly from the column, just the large housing for the motor and spindle assembly, essentially everything forward of the three large screws (at 3,6, and 9 o'clock) that hold it in place. I've never had the head off the machine before and wanted to ask for some advice before I try anything.
Long ago I had a conversation with Tommy about doing something like this and he mentioned:
1. setup some 2x4 pieces of wood on the mill's table to keep the spindle's nose from touching or supporting the weight of the head.
2. gently lower the head onto the wooden blocks on the table so that it is resting there.
3. unscrew the bolts from the three large screws in the head
4. slowly move the Y-axis forward and separate the head from the saddle column
5. perform maintenance as needed
To re-attach:
1. align the head's saddle (on the column) with the head which is still resting on wooden blocks
2. move the y-axis backwards until they're in contact again
3. tighten 3,6, 9 o'clock screws
4. re-tram the head to the table
For those who've done this, am I missing anything, or are there any tips or advice you could offer?
thanks in advance