thanks for the help. that is why I couldn't post pictures! yep I think manual with DRO is the way to go. fun little project. the table cleaned up like new. i dont think it's just the hand wheel i need. where the stepper motors engage there is a round part with 2 half circle raised parts on it that engage with the steppers. took closer look and the control box in back is actually the cnc controller, so I have more of it than I thought I didpaid 200 bucks for it all. with collects and some tooling