[dleroi]

In preparation for my CNC conversion, I installed the LMS belt drive kit. I'd read it was a 20 minute job, but mine was more like 2 hours. The threads on the spindle were mangled, as though someone had turned the spindle nut without loosening the set screw. Anyway, I spent some time dressing those threads and then I decided to remove the transmission gears, as well. I figured they could still cause problems (not to mention noise) as long as they were in there. I guess 2 hours isn't bad, considering the extra work I did.

Anyway, the last thing I wanted to do was to take it back apart to drill holes for a spindle lock, so I came up with one that uses the holes in the support block of the Z-axis micro feed.

I used a scrap of 3/16" aluminum for the support and turned down a 3/8" bolt for the lock pin. With a spring on one side and a locking collar on the other, it's smooth as silk. It isn't elegant, but it's simple and effective.

Parts for the CNC conversion (Hoss clone) started arriving today!