Startup CNC shop

[BBShark]

I second the recommendation of the Haas. A VF 3 is big enough to do most parts and a 3 axis machine is all you really need.

CAM software can be very expensive as others have said (Solidworks and ProE are not CAM software). MasterCAM is about pricey but supports advanced surfacing. You could make a wheel with it for example. Some of the cheaper CAM software does not do this.

Count on spending a fair amount for tooling, it's surprising how quickly that adds up.

[RECOVERY ROOM]

We are looking into having parts made for are interior business,One off stuff as well as a line of parts that will be mass produced

[clill]

Kwhizz knows what he is talking about. He has a very successful tool and die business. You can also email my Son Joe at [email protected]. He has a couple 4 axis horizontal Mazaks, is fairly new in the business and makes most of the billet taillights you see around here. Machining is only one part of the business..You also need people to pay you. Tough profession if you are not really squared away.

[Fluid Power]

Originally Posted by clill

..You also need people to pay you. Tough profession if you are not really squared away.

I own an Industrial Engineering and Distribution business and I can't believe what customers are trying to pull on us...90-120 terms, with a discount if they pay in 60. Oh the good old days when we could charge list and get paid in 20-30 days....

Darren

[Garage Dog 65]

THANKS to all who provided their input and opinions - much appreciated.

I continue to do my research and flesh this out some more. I'm going to start it up part-time with a desktop prototype/scanning mill (something like a Roland mdx-40 or a mdx-540) - combined with a lower cost 3 axis cnc (like a Tormach pcnc-1100) to get me started - and then work into the Hass VF3 and seperate building once I'm established and business picks up.

Picked Solidworks for the design tool and now have the software, books and looking at my local community college that teaches a design class using that specific software. Haven't picked the cam software yet - as both small units above have pre-packaged cam software included. Might not need to make the decision or investment until I step up to the Haas unit.

My community college also has a fully degreed Machine Tool Technology program that I have received at no cost to me as part of a state carear transition grant.

So the next couple years should be an interesting life change for me and my wife.

Any additional input is always appreciated. Thx !! Jim

[ironworks]

I think you should move to the oilfield capital of california and I know a guy that would make space for some free rent. If you bring the machines. The machinst here are to busy to do little old hot rod parts, cuz the oil companies are killing it.

Rodger

[Garage Dog 65]

Thanks so much for the offer !!

My only concern would be that I'd spend all my income at a certain shop building tube chassis projects all the time ....

But I would have access to Champs BBQ for my daily fix !!!

Jim

[ironworks]

Sounds like a great business plan to me