indexer mounting options on gantry machines

[JohnCoker]

I've been a happy Desktop user for several years now and really want to get an indexer, but the one that works with the Desktop is too small.

I think the optimal would be a gantry machine 48" x 60" x 12" with a 6" indexer hanging mount.

However even with the 60" wide machines, that means less than 48" between centers (given the 14" subtracted for the head and tail stock).

How hard is it to switch between the hanging and X-axis mounts when I need more distance between centers? If I get a 96" x 60" there would definitely be plenty of length, although I would prefer not to have such a large machine.

[barrowj]

I have a 4' x 8' PRT Alpha and put an lathe/indexer at the end of the table, the standard machine should be able to accommodate this. I position the spindle at 102.125" with .5" to spare and still have the ability to cut a 4' x 8' sheet of plywood. The max size on the lathe/indexer is 8", mostly due to clearance from my table.

Joe