The handles can still be used and  manual operation of the quill is possible by a simple disconnect of the Z ball screw nut.
The only problem with the X &Y manual use is that you loose the feel since steppers are attached.
A problem with handles are they can become a safety problem since they turn when using the machine in cnc mode.
 I need to modify their attachment to the screw so they can be free floating if desired.

RICH