Finally got a look at your video. It's a "thing of beauty and a joy forever" when things work properly.
If I may ask, where would I start, to learn about retro fitting mine? I am convinced that Mach is the way to go software-wise, but the hardware is confusing.
Mark.
Well that video was me manually operating the turret with the valves. I never powered the machine with the original control, as It had been physically damaged before I got the machine.
The sequence the valves are operated in is critical for a correct index.
Retrofiiting is not really very difficult, and there's lots of help available in the Mach Scene. I'm fairly lucky in that I have been retrofitting machines from a time long before Art started Mach etc.
It does help to run the machine on the original control, which in your case is easy. I've had to do a few totally blind with no data or anything, and they were certainly a headache to say the least.
Retrofitting with something like mach actually usually makes the machine much simpler than the original machine. As an example on the Hardinge I was able to completely remove the Wardrobe sized cabinet with double doors which housed the original electronics. Now I have a tiny enclosure. It helps that the newer drives etc are a lot smaller.
It need not cost too much either. I don't do things by halves as a rule, and have less than $3000 investedin the Leadwell VMC, it's already paid that back a few times. The Hardinge has cost more than I'd have wished, mainly due to it needing new servo motors and belt/pullies, I also chose to change the DC spindle drive for a new Siemens AC motor and Drive. But I'd reckon it will be paid back within the 1st month or so of use.
I know it's a scary thought, but you can do it with some common sense and good advice.
Wayne.....