I am grateful for some sound advice some of you have given me on the choice of a Bridgeport model. I have become convinced that I want a Series 1 Bridgeport with a J head and an R8 spindle - preferably with a 42" table. I don't need variable speed since I would be utilizing a VFD in any case.
It is obviously smart to physically inspect a used mill before purchasing it. Out of town travel to look at a mill is not a possibility for me. Unless a Baltimore dealer I have worked with comes up with a suitable Bridgeport in the near future, I may have to consider buying one on-line. Have any of you had success with an on-line purchase of a mill in the past? If so, can you steer me toward a trustworthy source? Budget limit is around $5K.
I'm reluctant to buy a mill from a private individual, as this would be my first large mill purchase. While I have read multiple accounts of what to look for in a used mill, I'm not sure I would recognize flaws if I saw them. Also, a dealer would be more likely to be able to coordinate delivery to my residence for me.
Thanks for any advice you can give me.
It is obviously smart to physically inspect a used mill before purchasing it. Out of town travel to look at a mill is not a possibility for me. Unless a Baltimore dealer I have worked with comes up with a suitable Bridgeport in the near future, I may have to consider buying one on-line. Have any of you had success with an on-line purchase of a mill in the past? If so, can you steer me toward a trustworthy source? Budget limit is around $5K.
I'm reluctant to buy a mill from a private individual, as this would be my first large mill purchase. While I have read multiple accounts of what to look for in a used mill, I'm not sure I would recognize flaws if I saw them. Also, a dealer would be more likely to be able to coordinate delivery to my residence for me.
Thanks for any advice you can give me.