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General Mach Discussion / upgrading to new hardware on old installation
« Last post by bimble on April 09, 2026, 03:16:37 AM »Hi Group
I have a Boxford 160, with a licensed installation of Mach3.
I think it was modified with part of the original boxford electronics and hardware and part new stuff, plus some hacks and sticky tape etc..... it's old and it works, (just about).....
see piccies enclosed of the old system.
It has been repaired by me a couple of times, and recently I lost m03 direction on the spindle, which I think is a relay or contactor that has gone as somthing just buzzes / hums when i run M03 and if I don't hit escape, it trips out... and I then need to reboot the mach software as well.
so for now I am limping and I always run M04 and switch the wires on the motor when i need to change spindle direction..
I have other machines and use this for specific small bits..
I have been contemplating removing all the hardware, motors, wiring etc... and replacing them with new. Which should work with my licensed Mach 3 software..
In looking, there looks like theres a lot of options to purchase and suppliers to purchase from online, but I have not seen a full kit with all the stepping motors and including a servo for the main spindle.
Ideally i would like to control and brake the spindle in axial position (like a 4th axis) so I can then do other ops on the job if required.
I will also need the correct power suplies etc..
Would I use one multi voltage power supply for everything or will I need multiple power supplies?
Will I need a contactor as I have now (see img_1413.jpg)?
the steppers on there do not have a lot of room. Will I get a steppers like for like in terms of size?
and if possible a closed loop version? or can I go for servos that will fit and have the power required?
Where is the best place to buy all the gear with the potential for some backup and advice?
I am in the uk.
B
I have a Boxford 160, with a licensed installation of Mach3.
I think it was modified with part of the original boxford electronics and hardware and part new stuff, plus some hacks and sticky tape etc..... it's old and it works, (just about).....
see piccies enclosed of the old system.
It has been repaired by me a couple of times, and recently I lost m03 direction on the spindle, which I think is a relay or contactor that has gone as somthing just buzzes / hums when i run M03 and if I don't hit escape, it trips out... and I then need to reboot the mach software as well.
so for now I am limping and I always run M04 and switch the wires on the motor when i need to change spindle direction..
I have other machines and use this for specific small bits..
I have been contemplating removing all the hardware, motors, wiring etc... and replacing them with new. Which should work with my licensed Mach 3 software..
In looking, there looks like theres a lot of options to purchase and suppliers to purchase from online, but I have not seen a full kit with all the stepping motors and including a servo for the main spindle.
Ideally i would like to control and brake the spindle in axial position (like a 4th axis) so I can then do other ops on the job if required.
I will also need the correct power suplies etc..
Would I use one multi voltage power supply for everything or will I need multiple power supplies?
Will I need a contactor as I have now (see img_1413.jpg)?
the steppers on there do not have a lot of room. Will I get a steppers like for like in terms of size?
and if possible a closed loop version? or can I go for servos that will fit and have the power required?
Where is the best place to buy all the gear with the potential for some backup and advice?
I am in the uk.
B
