What would cause the motors to slightly stall or pause when starting to moving axis in either direction

How do you have the acceleration and steps per inch set up, it could be your trying to get going too fast then they just make funny noises and stand still.

Kristin

It's a bit like starting a car - either you haven't enough power - or as above, you are trying to get away too fast.

If you are satified that your motors are strong enough, then look to your acceleration. I don't know what speed you are trying to get up to, but start at an acceleration of 0.5 or 1, and work upwards til the trouble occurs, then knock it down again.