That machine was probably not a big seller.
Frankly, that is the only thing I despise about Haas and their marketing/manufacturing strategy!
If I'm correct, the software is universal, meaning it is either the same or is compiled on the fly to fit the model it is loaded onto.
That is to say that any and all current model Haas lathes or mills use the very same software. Firmware might be different, but I wouldn't be surprized if it's part of the software dump an
is loaded as-needed.
They already have the design made. Good or bad, the design and all the components are designed, manufactured and sourced.
So what is exactly wrong with keeping the model alive as-is and sell it if someone wants the damned things!!!
I have an '01 SL10 with a 10 station / 1" turret. It is the same turret as the SL20, or the current ST20. The SL10 has not been offered with this turret since '02. It is now 12 station / 3/4" stick.
Why not give it as an option!!! I have not one single 3/4" tool, nor do I want one. Most of the "fancy" tools aren't even offered in 3/4", you gotta get custom!
And even more importantly, I can clear the 6" chuck with every single tool on the 10 station. Most absolutely cannot do that with the 12 station!
I also have an '02 MiniLathe. Yes, it has it's handicap, but it is 10 times the machine that the Office lathe is, and 5 times the machine any other gang tool manufacturer makes.
I'd give my right arm to get a new one!
My VF4 has the MOM option. It is a completely external option with only a single connection to the distribution board. External oil reservoir and a nozzle that is bolted onto the P-cool head. That's it for mechanicals!
It is discontinued to the point where new softwares don't even know the G-codes associated with it!
They also had a CNC VTL back in '01. Nothing alike anymore
That TL4 looks like a beast, and it was obviously completed and sold at least once.
Really? A company pounding it's chest about being one of the big guys of machinetools can't purchase and hold onto a few castings specific to a model?
We all know that most of the components are the same on all models!
I'm not asking Haas to make an EDM, Laser, turret punch or even a freakin' manual lathe!
Just make a complete lineup of CNC lathes and mills, and if something sells less than the desired volume after completion, just leave it alone and keep it around at least!