Hello all,

New member for this forum. I recently purchased a Grizzly G0781 mini mill and would like to convert it to a CNC mill. I have never done this before but have some automation experience in a past job so I though I would give it a try. I would love to get opinions on my path forward.

The first thing I will need to to is to convert to ball screws I initially start with ball screws and hand cranks, then convert to motors, depending on overall cost and recommendations on parts.

Ball screws - I'm thinking C7, cheap china made would be a good start. I have read that it's a cheap way to go and the ball screw may not last, but initially, it seem like a good path. I feel I can convert to better made screws if they wear or have an inconsistent backlash that can't be compensated for. The ball screws will be much better than the current lead screws installed. Amazon has a selection for $50-$70 per axis, including end supports.

Brackets for the ball screws - I'll need to fab up simple brackets to mount the ball screws with the current setup. I think I can make simple brackets that only need single axis movement cuts so I can make the brackets with the current lead screw mill setup.

Option 1- Motor controller kit 3-Axis NEMA23 CNC Kit (48V/7.3A/425oz-in/KL-5056). from Automationtechnologiesnc.com. Motors, drivers, and power supply. A good cheap option. $280.

Option 2 - piece together.
Motion Controller - Gecko drive, G540, currently selling the pumpkin spice edition. This is the controller and the motor drivers.$270.
Motor - STP-MTR-23079 from automation direct, $40 each.

Software
AutoCAD Fusion 360 for design work
Mach3 (or Mach4) for CNC control. Demo initially, then convert to paid if I start making money cutting other peoples parts.

So, that's the plan. Tell me what you think and where I may have made poor assumptions. Tell me if you have experience with any of these or if you have recommendations I should look into.

Thanks for your time,
Flagstaff