This machine is currently on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/264477987412 because I am undecided on what to do with it.
If the link doesn't open it is a 5'x10' Thermwood Model 53.
A year or so ago I redid a a 4x8 Multicam. This gave me the false confidence that all cnc machines are a lot the same. I am finding out that I do not know where to begin with something this big.
Below are what I see as my current options. I would like opinions on these or a new suggestion.
#1 Sell the machine for parts not working and hopefully get a little bit of my money back.
#2 Change all the electronics motors included. For this option what size of motors do I have to have? Can I use large steppers? Is the only downside of this it will be slow? For my current project requirements it will be cutting .025 aluminum and then I have to cut deep grooves in foam with a .25" bit so it will be running slowly to preserve the bit anyway.
#3 This is the ideal option. A new Windows based control system and use the current motors and drivers. Will Mach run any control board that will send signals to drive these motors?
Any thoughts are very welcomed.