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Converting a Logan 11" x 32" Lathe over to full CNC, Part 9:

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

It's now time to figure out how to mount the Z-axis stepper. Mounting options are limited on this end,
so I decided to remake the hastily-made ballscrew mount to add an extension for the motor.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

A few rough measurements and another quick trip through the bandsaw, along with  a fresh bolt pattern
(thankfully I'd saved my notes from the first one) produced this new mounting plate.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

A brief test fit off the lathe, and I was able to trim it to fit.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

The "leg" took a little shaving here and there to clear the bed castings, but after a few patient minutes,
I had it fitted reasonably well and firmly bolted down.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

The stepper would mount about like this, so now I needed to make a faceplate.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

A few more measurements, more 1/2" aluminum flatbar, and we have our faceplate.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

The stepper temporarily mounted, and ready for a test fit.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

I had to trim the top edge a bit to clear the upper pulley, but once that was done,
everything cleared nicely and looked like it was going to work just fine.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

The faceplate got a row of three slightly-oversized holes, and a matching set was drilled and tapped into
the edge of the main mounting plate. As with the cross-slide, the slightly oversized holes provided
a touch of adjustment in order to tension the belt.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

Cleaned and mounted. The pulley still needs to be drilled for some setscrews, but we're getting there.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

I'll probably use the QCGB holes in the upper bed rail to hold a sheetmetal chip cover,
and add a hard-mounted strain relief for the cable at some point.

Logan Lathe CNC Conversion

But so far I think it's looking good. Next up, mounting the Z-axis ballnut to the saddle!

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