4th axis set up for occassional use.

[martin54]

So I am finally getting round to setting up a 4th axis on the CNC but it won't be used all the time. Looking for how others have set theirs up so it can be reasonably quickly & easily set up on the machine table so it is accurate,
Thinking the chuck & tailstop need to be mounted on a board to maintain alignment & at least one of them needs to be moveable for different length pieces of stock.
I am looking elsewhere but never hurts to ask on here as well

[Rcnewcomb]

On my setup the chuck is mounted on a 1/2" (12-13mm) 90 degree plate that can move up and down to match the height of the spoilboard. It is centered with one of the T-tracks. The tailstock mounts in the T-track so it can easily move closer/farther from the chuck.

[PaulB]

I take mine off and on as needed.
I check X,Y, and Z of chuck and tail stock every time, but rarely have to adjust.
Look at the AVID system to get an idea of what I use.
I am not saying to use this system, just for an idea.

[martin54]

I figured T track might be one way to be able to move either part & keep the alignment, I have some as I keep it for jigs & fixtures Unfortunately I don't have the room to mount the axis off the end of the table but like the idea

That Avid system looks really nice but unfortunately not within my sort of price range but you never know maybe one day or maybe Avid would like to gift one to a UK Veteran

[Jimcad]

Mine came mounted on a Steel plate 16mm thick.
27 kg just the plate.
With it all assembled it was awful to pick up.
I bought a 12mm thick Aluminium plate and mounted it all on there and in line with the plate.
I can slide it on the table up to my location pegs and know it's true.
All looks impressive but never used it yet.
Something else for me to learn about.
I expect there will be plenty of cursing and crying ahead.
Jim