Which machine would be right?

[CDarby67]

All,

I have worked with the full sizes Alpha shopbot at a maker space.
I would like to get a CNC if my own and Shopbot seems to be where I want to spend my money. A few questions.

Other than work space / project size; what limitations will I have with a Shopbot desktop ? Can the spindle handle all the same materials and thickness that the full size alpha does? I do not foresee anything beyond 12/4 in a hardwood, t6061 at “1.00”, or polycarbonate “1.25”.
Next:
I am thinking used is my best route - this is for hobbies, not business.

What pitfalls and problems do I need to look out for when buying a used Shopbot desktop?

Thanks,
Clint

[scottp55]

Older shopbot Desktops had a max travel of 4.5" (about '2015 that changed to 5.5 Z) be aware that a Z- retrofit kit may or may not be available/ and and cost may vary depending on Z-rail manufacturer. Our Z-Rtetrofit kits were 250 to $275 depending on Z-rail configuration.
@005 April seems when they all changed to 5.5Z max
Changeover from pre 5.5 is minimal if bolts all loosen is easy:)
(ask for compete bolt replacement) and pay if bolts have galled !
Use Never -Seize when reinstalling!

IF 2015 spring or later ....you should be all set! (look for spindle shroud bolts which indicate 4.5 Z which are earlier)

IF your Desktop has a spindle-interlock key...you are generally set for the newer 5.5Z :)

Look for what the previous owner was cutting...and how aggressively and if they used ramping into cuts.
Many Desktop owners act as if it it's an industrial machine..... I baby mine and she's sill perfect after 5+ yrs:)

ONLY hardwoods here...and very conservative on detailed Small 3D'ds nowadays.
MANY uses for an accurate cut with a Desktop!It don't get much better than a tight Desktop...check other's spec's:)
scott

[scottp55]

IF others were cutting abrasive material with insufficient DC, or abrasive materials with sub standard DC...possible all bets are off!!
My unibody is good, but if I started cutting more than Soapstone/ Marble....I'd worry about Y axis contamination...same as any machine!!

[scottp55]

IF others were cutting abrasive material with insufficient DC, or abrasive materials with sub standard DC...possible all bets are off!!
My unibody is good, but if I started cutting more than Soapstone/ Marble....I'd worry about Y axis contamination...same as any machine!!
hardwoods/exotic...no problem.