I drew a 3d part in solid works and transferred it to drawing template so I could save as dxf file. I try loading it to mach3, one time it came up but in the tool path the part was there along with all data boxes underneath it just looked like a flat picture that I could rotate around. (I couldn't get it to come up again)I go to preview the tool path nothing happens. I'm new to all this cnc and know nothing I'm lost. The question is how do I get a 3d part document in solid works to come up on mach3 properly and cut it out on my cnc wood router table. Clear step by step would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time, Spencer.

Spencer m,
You need to import the dxf into a program, which will then provide Gcode based on how you want to machine the piece, and use the Gcode / file in Mach.
ie. Use Lazycam to import the drawing, define what you want to do, and then post the generated Gcode to Mach.
Hopefully this will get you started in the right direction,
RICH

Spencer

L-cam is 2-D --   won't do a 3-D file.

bill