Re: Which Fadal? 4020 1992 with 4th Axis or 4020 1998?
the 92 will be a DC machine which is super easy for repairs, but it may a pathetic control, we have been fine with our -4 after upgrading to max memory (422kb) and a Calmotion..You would likely want to upgrade it to at least a -5 though. The 4th axis is a great feature, however the Fadal method of controlling it can be a nightmare to program (or very expensive to have a post made). It is not the Fanuc standard. Very easy to insert hand code for 4th axis positional.
I personally prefer the boxway machine when going Fadal and would check that.
I would also be checking what spindle drive (I wouldnt want a 6 belt) and RPM for comparison and does either have the 28" extended Z?
Rigid tapping feature would also be high on my list of must haves
If you are a production guy, the 98 should have twice as fast rapids
www.integratedmechanical.ca