I realized I should ask this in a more general sense. I am looking
to buy a used machining center for about $10k - preferably newer than
1990. I do only aluminum - slotting, 2d contouring, drilling and
tapping. This is for prototyping and small production runs ( 50
pieces). I need 15 to 20 inch on the Y, and 25 - 30 inch on x. Could
anyone give me a pro and con comparison of different machines, with
some idea of what may be needed in repair costs (mechanical items -
spindle bearings, linear ways) as well as controller programming
comparisons as well as the best machinery dealers?

A well asked question. If I were asking the same question, I'd search out a
"good" machine tool salesperson and spend some time with him/her.

Good luck!


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oups.com...
I realized I should ask this in a more general sense. I am looking
to buy a used machining center for about $10k - preferably newer than
1990. I do only aluminum - slotting, 2d contouring, drilling and
tapping. This is for prototyping and small production runs ( 50
pieces). I need 15 to 20 inch on the Y, and 25 - 30 inch on x. Could
anyone give me a pro and con comparison of different machines, with
some idea of what may be needed in repair costs (mechanical items -
spindle bearings, linear ways) as well as controller programming
comparisons as well as the best machinery dealers?