Thanks for posting the update with pictures. Sounds like it is doing fine.
I am getting around to getting around to start on mine. I say start, but I have started getting some of the parts already. Been doing that as I had the cash to start with. I won't use the OEM screws. Ball screws are just too easy for me not to use them. Already have some.
I had intended to check on the square column to retrofit this one, but after thinking about it, I think I will use the short fall of the round column to my advantage instead. Down the road at least. I think I could put a grinding head or high speed spindle on the back side of the collar. It would be a simple matter to swivel the head around and swap motor plugs. That is one of those "We'll see" type projects.
First things first.
I will use the quill, but want to build an axis for it using the lower collar position on a new plate with linear slides and it's own screw. I have these parts left over from Ebay purchases, so will be trying that route.
I use less than 5" of my Z axis at a time on my small mill, so the only time I would need to move the collar would be to install a vise. I would do all the vise work on my small mill and eliminate that need.
I'll be using 1200 oz motors direct drive to start with. Yours seem to be doing well.
I do have a thread started and should be seeing some action on it in the next month. I'll post a link.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/bencht...onversion.html
Post some pictures of parts you have made when you get a chance.
Thanks.