Thread: WTB Milling machine, Vancouver BC

WTB- Bridgeport, Ex-Cell-O, First, Lagun, Deckel, etc. milling machine for home-hobby. Would like powered Y, approx 9" x 42"-49" table, R8. 2/3 axis DRO, single shot lube, and/or powered knee would be nice. 220V 3Ph OK, 220V 1Ph even better. Something well cared for, in good to very good condition and without issues. Don't need another project. Vancouver BC area or Vancouver Island would be perfect although I would also look at shipping for the right machine. Email is best: mikew@wigginsgrp.com. Thanks a bunch. Mike

I saw this this AM:

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/van/bfs/1582917880.html

Many thanks Aerodark. I have sent an email request for information through to the seller. Fingers crossed. Cheers!

Hello Aerodark. Link to Craigslist Bridgeport no longer active. I guess everything has already been sold. Thanks again for the sharp eye. Cheers!

I got a reply back today around Noon PST from vanjoe10@gmail.com re: the BP. Here's the full text of his e-mail. I won't be pursuing it, it's a little out of my range.

Hi John it is 220 v 3 phase 1 HP motor, does have a good DRO that I replaced 4 years ago, and Im including all collets and a rotary table asking $2500

Joe
604-760-7415

Hope this helps,

John

Many thanks John. I will pursue and revert with findings. Cheers!

Hello John; Spoke with Joe and he was very honest about the machine. In his words it's in "OK" shape, has a slightly shaky table (mostly backlash) which is out by about .010" over 22 inches, is underpowered with the 1hp motor, requires belt changes for speed adjustments, has a sub-2,000 rpm top speed and has no power drives. None of the above would make me run in fear but I just need to see whether the price is in line with condition. I'm thinking it might be on the high side of fair but he seemed willing to discuss. Even though it may be very close to being a project machine, in the absence of anything better between now and the not too distant future, it may all of a sudden become my first choice. Thanks again for the heads-up John. Cheers!

On the plus side, he sounds honest and you know what you're getting into. On the negative, it sounds like a lot of work for $2K. Bear in mind I'm also shopping for my first mill, so I know pretty close to nothing in the real world, and most of my "head knowledge" comes from lurking here and other forums. Maybe someone more experienced with BP's and prices in the Pacific NW could help us both understand what you're looking at?

Funny you are looking North Of the border for these kind of tools, this stuff is typically much more affordable in the Seattle area.

Agreed on all counts. First "at home" Mill for me too. I've only ever used someone else's beauty or else company owned equipment. I'm OK with an oldie but a goodie. Whatever I buy today will stay with me until I'm on the wrong side of the lawn, hence the caution. Cheers! Mike

You're right Dave, there have been some good deals in the Seattle area but they go pretty quick. I am just fine with buying locally, even as far south as Olympia, but when the distance between me and the mill gets too big, I need to look at shipping and then the costs become prohibitive. Also, the Mill will ultimately come to rest on Vancouver Island so buying north of the border does relieve some headaches. But to be honest, I would gladly endure a few headaches if ultimately I end up with a good mill. Cheers! Mike