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4'x8' CNC Machine (blackFoot)

$4,500.00 USD

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Title 4'x8' CNC Machine Kit (blackFoot v4.3) - w/ 2.2kW Spindle 4'x8' CNC Machine Kit (blackFoot v4.3) w/ 2.2kW Spindle - Assembled.

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The blackFoot 4'x8' CNC machine has a cutting area of 4 feet (48 inches/1219.2 mm) by 8 feet (96 inches/2438.4 mm). The machine is intended to cut 4'x8' sheet material. Table Not Included. The blackFoot offers precise control using 3 axes of motion. The x and y axes are helped by roller chain mechanisms at a pitch of .25". The chain and sprocket combinations are ANSI #25 specification. The z-axis uses lead screw at 1/2"-10 TPI @ 5 starts for a travel of inch with 2 turns. Accuracy and smooth operation are maintained using an anti-backlash nut on the z-axis. The structure is very rigid and resists lateral and bending forces to keep the machine stable throughout the machining process. All blackFoot CNC machines can be customized to fit the router of your choice, but we strongly recommend using the 2.2kW Spindle with Inverter. Purchasing Guide Basic Kit – For Router Includes structure, hardware, mechanical components, aluminum rail, electronics, limit switches, parallel interface board. You assemble the machine yourself following the instructions located on the bottom of this page. Does not include: Table, Router or Spindle, Computer, Software, Bits (end mills) Basic Kit – with Spindle Includes everything in the basic kit and a 2.2kW Spindle with 220V Inverter. Does not include: Table, Computer, Software, Bits (end mills) Spindle is water-cooled and requires some additional wires and plumbing equipment. We recommend you seek a licensed electrician for installation. Note: If you don’t have access to 220V power, we can provide you with a 110V inverter. Contact us for a custom quote. Assembled Version – with Spindle Includes everything in the basic kit – with 2.2kW Spindle. We assemble the gantry for you and ship it to you in a crate via freight carrier (you choose during checkout). You will still need to construct your own table for the gantry and install the aluminum rail on it. Computer and Control Box Options Basic Assembled Control Box redFly – with this option we install and wire the electronics in a custom-made control box. This is a great option if you want to save the time of wiring and mounting the electronics yourself. Assembled Control Box with Deluxe Computer – Includes the control box option plus an integrated computer built into the control box. The computer features an Intel Pentium 3.0 GHz processor with 2GB of RAM and a Seagate 1TB Internal Hard Drive. This package includes Mach3 CNC software and a Windows 7 Professional license, which we will register in your name and pre-install on the computer for you. How Long Does it Take to Ship the Machine? The entire machine kit will take about 10-14 business days to produce and send out under normal circumstances. During busy periods this could increase to 15-21 business days. You can always contact us for an accurate estimate before purchasing. Assembled Machines will take longer as they have to be produced to order. Expect a lead time of 3-4 weeks for assembled machines. For International Buyers: Please do not use our shipping calculator if you are attempting to purchase a product that needs to be freighted and is outside of the United States. Please contact us and we will arrange a freight quote for you. Any products bought requiring freight will be subject to additional shipping charges if purchased without receiving a freight quote.

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Instructions

Wiring Diagrams and Tutorials: Parallel Breakout Board: Diagram | Video Tutorial USB Breakout Board: Diagram | Video Tutorial 2.2KW Spindle: Wiring Instructions (Scroll down to Instructions)

Should be as short as possible to be able to reach the top/middle of the machine bed.

Minimum clearance for the top layer overhang is 2 inches to allow for chain mount space.

Any obstruction under the top layer of the table should be a minimum of four (4) inches. This will allow for the lower part of the gantry side clearance.

The strict width of the table shall be 51-7/8 inches. You have about 1/4 inch of flexibility wider, but not narrower than 51-7/8 inches. The length of the table for 8 feet of long axis travel is 120 inches. This compensates for the bearing spacing on the gantry sides. If a longer travel is desired, just increase this dimension.

Insert one 1/2 inch ID bearing to the left gantry side.

Add the idler sprocket assembly to left gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, two 3/8 inch medium washers, one 3/8 inch thin washer and one 3/8 inch nut.

Insert the v-groove bearing and idler sprocket assembly to the left gantry side using one 3/8 x 3 inch screw, two 3/8 inch large washers, two 3/8 inch thin washers one v-groove bearing, one idler sprocket and one 3/8 inch nut.

Insert one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel to serve as the bearing adjustment screw.

Install the lower v-groove bearing assembly to the left gantry side as shown. Use one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Add a v-groove bearing assembly to the upper front portion of the left gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, two large 3/8 inch washers, one 3/8 inch thin washer and one 3/8 inch nut.

Add the lower front v-groove bearing adjustment screw to the left gantry side using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel nut.

Add the lower front v-groove bearing assembly to the left gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Orient and arrange the left gantry side and gantry front as shown. Pay close attention to the orientation of these two parts.

Fasten the left gantry side with the gantry front using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

Continue the fastening of the left gantry side with the gantry front with one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and a cross dowel.

Insert one 1/2 inch ID bearing into the right gantry side as shown.

Add the idler sprocket assembly to the right gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one 3/8 inch nut, two 3/8 inch large washers, one 3/8 inch thin washer and one idler sprocket.

Add the v-groove bearing and idler sprocket assembly to the right gantry side using one 3/8 x 3 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, two 3/8 in thin washers, two 3/8 inch large washers, one idler sprocket and one nut.

Add the lower v-groove bearing adjustment screw to the right gantry side using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel.

Add the lower read v-groove assembly to the right gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers, and one 3/8 inch nut.

Add the front lower v-groove adjustment screw to the right gantry side using one 1/4 x 1-1/25 inch screw and cross dowel.

Add the lower front v-groove bearing to the right gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Add the upper front v-groove bearing assembly to the right gantry side using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Arrange and orient the right gantry side and gantry front as shown.

Fasten together the right gantry side and gantry front using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

with one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel, continue fastening the right gantry side to the gantry front.

Fasten the upper y-axis rail to the rail support as shown. Pay close attention to the orientation of the rail and the y-axis rail support. Use 8 1/4 x 1 inch screws and cross dowels for this step. Make sure to keep the screws loosely fastened.

Fasten the lower y-axis rail to the y-axis rail support piece using eight 1/4 x 1 inch screws and cross dowels. Keep these screw loosely fastened until all of the screws are in. Completely tighten the screws while the rails and support piece is resting on a flat table as shown.

Arrange the y-axis rails and support piece with the Gantry Front as shown. Pay close attention to the orientation of the y-axis rail support. An easy way to determine orientation is the counter bored holes and the two upper holes on the ends of the y-axis rail support.

Fasten the y-axis rail support to the gantry front using eighteen (18) 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and 1/4 inch nuts. It is best to insert all of the screws into all of the holes prior to adding the nuts. Start by inserting screws at the extreme ends of the y-axis rail support piece so the parts are held in place with less effort. After all of the screws are inserted, add the nuts and tighten.

Fasten the right gantry side to the y-axis rail support and right gantry side using two 1/4 x 2 inch screws and cross dowels.

Fasten the y-axis rail support to the left gantry side using two 1/4 x 2 inch screws and cross dowels.

Using two C-clamps, secure two of the x-axis rails above and below the table overhang. On this side, make sure the rails are flush with the table top. Make sure to align these rails so that the holes are perfectly aligned with both rails.

Drill the first hole through the table at one end of the rails.

Add one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and a nut to fasten this part of the X-Axis Rails. Remove the C-clamp when this screw and nut are fastened tightly.

Drill a hole at the other extreme of the x-axis rails.

Add one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and nut and tighten firmly around the x-axis rails. Remove the C-clamp after the screw and nut are tightened.

This is an important step to make sure the x-axis rail are as straight as possible. Add a C-Clamp to the midpoint of the x-axis rails and with another person, look down the length of the rails and adjust the C-Clamp and rails until the rails are straight and then tighten the clamp.

Drill a hole through the table next to the c-clamp.

Insert one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and nut at the midpoint of the rails and tighten firmly.

Drill the remaining holes for the x-axis rails keeping an eye on the straightness of the rails as these drills are made. Use extra c-clamps if further straightness is not maintained during the drilling process.

Secure the x-axis rails in the holes just drilled while always keeping an eye on the straightness of the rails.

Secure the second set of x-axis rails using two c-clamps (more if you feel necessary).

with two or more people to lift the gantry assembly, slide the gantry side bearings onto the x-axis rails. Notice where the c-clamps are located in this step. This will allow some flexibility in the second set x-axis rails. As the gantry is positioned and let rest, adjust the c-clamps to allow the rails to correct its position. Be very careful not to loosen the c-clamps too much as the rails will rotate out of position and the gantry can fall to one side.

Once the rails are correctly positioned, add another c-clamp to the end to secure the x-axis rails, behind the gantry. Make sure the gantry is as close to this position as possible so the rail will be at the best possible position with respect to the v-groove rails.

Move the gantry to the front of the table close to the c-clamp at that end and adjust the c-clamp to make sure the x-axis rail is in the correct position. Drill the first hole for this second set of x-axis rails.

Using one 1/4 - 1-1/2 inch screw, fasten the rails to the table at this end first making sure that the rails is at the best possible position.

Move the gantry to the other end of the table. Adjust the c-clamp if necessary and drill a hole through the table.

Fasten this end with one 1/4 -1-1/2 inch screw and nut.

Drill the hole next to the hole on the end making sure that the gantry bearing is very close to the drill area to insure that the rail will be at the correct position.

Fasten with on 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and nut. Do the same drilling and fastening for the next hole.

For the fourth hole and remaining holes, drill and fasten each hole while keeping the gantry very close to the drilling area and fastening area. This will force the rail into the correct position in relation to the width of the gantry and the positions of the v-groove bearings.

Arrange and orient the gantry bottom to the gantry front. Pay close attention to the orientation of the gantry bottom and where the small hole near the middle is located.

Fasten the gantry bottom to the gantry front using nine 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels. Keep these screws loosely fastened until all of the screws and cross dowels are in.

Position the gantry top as shown paying close attention to the orientation.

Fasten the gantry top to the gantry front as shown using nine 1/4 x 2 inch screws and cross dowels. Keep these fasteners loosely fastened until all of the screws and cross dowels are in.

Insert the x-axis motors into position where the screw holes in the gantry top and gantry front is located. The screw hole in the gantry bottom will not be used.

Insert the cross dowel as shown.

Insert one 1/4 x 2 inch screw and loosely drive the screw into the cross dowel.

Fasten the top of the X-axis stepper motor mount using one 1/4 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel as shown.

Slide one rigid coupling (coupler) into one 1/2 inch rod. Position the rigid coupling past the end of the rod as shown.

Insert the other end of the rod through the 1/2 inch bearing that is seated into the left gantry side.

Insert one rigid coupling onto the other 1/2 inch rod as shown.

Insert rod into the 1/2 inch bearing located in the right gantry side as shown.

Fasten motor onto the motor mount as shown using four 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and 1/4 inch nuts. Make sure the wires from the motor is positioned at the top of the motor.

Slide both rigid coupling so that the coupling equally cover the stepper motor shaft and the rod (rod half was through the coupling and the motor shaft half way through the coupling).

Slide the drive sprocket onto the rod protruding from the left gantry side. Orient as shown so that the drive sprocket can be aligned with the idler sprockets below. Tighten the set screws when the proper alignment is achieved. Do this on the rod protruding out of the right gantry side as well.

Fasten the chain mount to the bottom chain mount support using three 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels. Keep these loosely fastened.

Fasten top chain mount support to the chain mount as shown using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels. Keep these loosely fastened.

Slide the chain mount assembly onto the table overhang as shown. Squeeze the top and bottom chain mount supports against the overhang and tighten all of the screws.

Bring the gantry close to the mount and align the mount laterally to center the sprocket teeth to the midpoint of the slot opening in the chain mount. Drill three holes to prepare this mount for fastening to the table.

Fasten the chain mount to the table using three 1/4 x 3 inch screws and 1/4 inch nuts.

Insert one eyebolt, 1/4 inch washer and 1/4 inch nut as shown. Repeat all of the steps of assembling the chain mount assembly and fastening them to the table. For the right side of the table, flip the assembly parts so that they will extend off of the right side of the table.

Route the x-axis roller chain as shown. To ease this process, first drape the roller chain over the drive sprocket. Then bring each end of the roller chain to the mount making sure that the roller chain routes under the idler sprockets. Repeat this process on the right side of the table.

Fasten each roller chain end as shown using two #4 screws and #4 nuts. The #4 screws will fit between the pins and plates of the roller chain link. Repeat this process for each corner of the table (each end of the two x-axis roller chains).

Attach the z-axis upper right v-groove bearing adjustment screw to the z/y plate as shown using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel. Pay close attention to the orientation of the z/y plate.

Attach the z-axis upper right v-groove bearing assembly to the z/y plate using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, two 3/8 inch large washers, one 3/8 inch thin washer, one v-groove bearing, and one 3/8 inch nut.

Attach Upper right y-axis v-groove bearing adjustment screw using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel.

Attach upper right v-groove bearing assembly using 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, one 3/8 inch thin washer, three 3/8 inch large washers, and one 3/8 inch nut.

Attach lower right Y-axis v-groove bearing assembly using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, one v-groove bearing, one 3/8 inch thin washer, two 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Attach the lower right z-axis v-groove adjustment screw using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel.

Attach the lower right z-axis v-groove bearing assembly using one 3/8 x 2 inch screw, two 3/8 inch large washers, one 3/8 inch thin washer, one v-groove bearing and one 3/8 inch nut.

Attach the lower left z-axis and y-axis v-groove bearing assembly using one 3/8 x 3 inch screw, two v-groove bearing, two 3/8 inch thin washer, three 3/8 inch large washers and one 3/8 inch nut.

Attach the upper left y-axis v-groove bearing adjustment screw using one 1/4 x 1-1-/2 inch screw and cross dowel.

Attach the upper left Y and Z axis v-groove bearing assembly using one 3/8 x 3 inch screw, two 3/8 inch thin washers, three 3/8 inch large washers, two v-groove bearings and one 3/8 inch nut.

Fasten the upper z-axis anti-backlash nut mount as shown using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel.

Loosely fasten the lower z-axis anti-backlash nut mount as shown using one 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowel. Once fastened, tweak the rotation of the two upper and lower mounts so that the sides are flush, then tighten the lower screws while squeezing the two mounts together.

Loosely fasten the anti-backlash nut using two #8 x 1-1/2 inch screws, two #8 washers and two #8 nuts.

Slide the z/y plate assembly onto the y-axis rails as shown.

Fasten the #8 nut insert into the y-axis motor mount as shown and attach the stepper motor using one #8 x 1 inch screw. Only drive the nut insert into the wood until the the force seems snug. Over-tightening may damage the mount.

Insert and tighten the remaining stepper motor mounting screws using three #8 x 1-1/2 inch screws, three #8 washers and three #8 nuts.

Slide the y-axis drive sprocket to the shaft of the stepper motor. Tighten the set screws only when the motor mount is installed onto the z/y plate and the sprocket can be aligned with the idler sprocket that will be installed later.

Fasten the y-axis motor mount screws into the z/y plate as shown using four 3/8 x 3 inch screw and three 3/8 inch nuts.

Slide the idler sprocket onto the top right motor mount screw as shown. This sprocket will have axial freedom so that the position can be autocorrected as to the position and alignment of the y-axis roller chain.

Slide the y-axis motor mount onto the motor mount screws as shown using three 3/8 inch nuts as a way to hold the motor mount partially in-place.

Drive the remaining nuts to permanently hold the y-axis motor mount into position using four 3/8 inch nuts. tighten the previous three nuts against these nuts to hold the motor mount in-place while making sure that the motor mount is as close as possible to the z/y plate and the faces of the motor mount and z/y plate are parallel. The idler sprocket must have space to move side to side.

Loosely fasten the short y-axis chain mount to the gantry as shown using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Loosely fasten the short y-axis chain mount to the gantry using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screw and cross dowels.

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Loosely fasten the long y-axis chain mount to the gantry using three 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Loosely fasten the long y-axis chain mount to the gantry using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Add the eye bolt assembly to the long y-axis chain mount using one eye bolt, one 1/4 inch washer and one 1/4 inch nut.

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Route the y-axis roller chain as shown starting from the long y-axis chain mount, winding over and then under the idler sprocket and then over and under the drive sprocket and ending at the short y-axis chain mount.

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Fold a small portion of the y-axis roller chain over the short y-axis chain mount and fasten the chain mount bracket against the folded the roller chain as shown using two 1/4 x 2 inch screws and two 1/4 nuts.

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Curl the roller chain into the eye bolt and fasten as shown using two #4 screws and two #4 nuts. After this step is completed, adjust the height of the two y-axis roller chain mounts so that the chain is as level as possible and tighten the screws to maintain the position.

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The following assembly instructions are for the porter cable router mounts. If you purchased the spindle, these instructions will be similar but will not include a mid section dust mount and air diverter. Fasten the upper router/spindle mount to the long portion of the z-axis mid rail support as shown using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels. The mid rail support piece may appear different depending on the router/spindle chosen.

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Fasten the other long mid rail support to the upper router/spindle mount using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Fasten the short mid rail support to the lower router/spindle mount using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws as shown. The mid rail support may not the same as in the illustration depending on the router/spindle chosen.

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Attach the other short mid rail support to the lower router/spindle mount as shown using two 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Loosely fasten the z-axis rail and rail support piece using eight 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels.

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Loosely fasten the next set of screws for the z-axis rail support using eight 1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws and cross dowels. Repeat these steps to attach the z-axis rail and rail support on the other side of the assembly. After the assembly is complete, lay the assembly rail side down on a flat surface and tighten all of the screws.

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Add bottom nut inserts into the bottom of the dust shoe as shown using two 1/4 nut inserts.

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Attach the dust shoe and air diverter to the bottom of the lower router/spindle mount as shown using two 1/4 x 2 inch screws. Drive these screws into the nut inserts installed in the dust shoe. The air diverter may not be included if the water cooled spindle is chosen.

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Add the mount tightening screws using two 1/4 x 3 inch screws, four 1/4 inch washers and two nuts

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Insert one 1/2 inch bearing into the bottom z-axis bearing mount. The bearing seat may be tight and require a mallet to persuade the bearing into the seat.

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Insert the lead screw through the bearing

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Insert one 1/2 inch ID (inside diameter) bearing into the seat of the z-axis top bearing mount.

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Assembly the z-axis bearing mounts using four 1/4 x 3 inch screws and cross dowels. Add one 1/2 inch small diameter washer above the top bearing

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Install the flexible coupling (coupler) at the top portion of the lead screw. Make sure that the lead screw has just enough protrusion that it will be flush with the 1/2 coupling hub flat portion and does not protrude so much that the lead screw will interfere with the coupling spider.

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Insert four 1/4 x 3 inch screws up through the top bearing mount and drive four 1/4 inch nuts to fasten the screws onto the mount and four more 1/4 nuts to serve as fasteners to the bottom part of the motor mount.

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Attach the z-axis stepper motor onto the motor mount using four #8 screws, four #8 washers and four #8 nuts

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Slide the motor mount to the four screws and secure the motor mount with four 1/4 nuts.

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Slide the z-axis assembly between the z-axis v-groove bearings. During this process, make sure to assist the lead screw in finding the top of the anti-backlash nut. When the lead screw is resting on top of the anti-backlash nut, turn the screw to drive the screw into the anti-backlash nut while depressing the anti-backlash nut bushing so the lead screw will be easier to thread into the anti-backlash nut.

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Tighten all of the rigid coupling clamp screws and make sure the motor wiring is routed out of the gantry. Install the two gantry back pieces with twenty-six (26) cross dowels and twenty-six (26)1/4 x 1-1/2 inch screws. Keep all of the fasteners loose until both gantry back pieces are on and loosely secured with the screws and cross dowels. Follow the sequence of installing the components as per the illustrations in the order presented to ease the installation.

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To wire and connect the CNC electronics, go here.

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The following videos served as the supplemental videos to construct the gantry portion of the blackFoot CNC Machine. These videos are only here for reference; however I strongly urge the use of the above illustrative instructions instead since the design has changed. To assist with the assembly of the 4x8 blackFoot CNC Machine, here is a three part series as a supplement to the 2x4 assembly. These videos cover the main differences that you will need to know while assembling the 4x8 machine. These videos are intended to add to the previous lead screw version video assembly series. The major differences include the much wider and stronger gantry structure, the roller chain power transmission and the methods and parts needed to take advantage of the mechanics. blackFoot suplimental video 1: This is the first in the supplemental series of videos to assemble the blackFoot CNC Machine. This video will show the process for assembling the front part of the gantry.

Watch Video

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blackFoot suplimental video 2: This is the second supplemental video for the blackFoot CNC Machine assembly. In this video, the top and bottom parts of the gantry box are added to the gantry front. The gantry sides are also installed.

Watch Video

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blackFoot suplimental video 3: This is a supplemental video on how to assemble the blackFoot CNC Machine kit. This is the third in the series that demonstrates the installation of the y-axis rails.

Watch Video

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blackToe and blackFoot chain mount: Installation of the chain mount assembly for the blackToe and blackFoot cnc machines.

Watch Video

Questions & Answers

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Do you have any videos or plans for how to make a strong table for a large CNC router? I saw the torsion box videos but would like some more guidance on how to build just a good table.

This is a good video on how to do a vacuum table https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOrkvPF0pro
Do you have a vacuum hold down solution for the 4x8 router kit?

This would be a great submission to the R&D section. You can make the request by going in the R&D section: https://www.buildyourcnc.com/ResDev.aspx and logging in and describing the request using the title and description fields and pressing the submit button. Don't forget to vote for your favorite projects, including the new one, while you are there.
If I purchased the blackFoot 4x8, do you include the plans for the machine itself, in case I wanted to replace a piece of it due to wear?

Unfortunately we no longer include or sell our CNC plans for none of our machines. We will be here to assist you if any parts wear over time, and will be able to replace the parts if needed. Charges may be subjected due to time of purchase and cause of wear.
If I purchase the blackFoot and the Plug and Play system will it come with 2 sets of electronics?

When you are ready to make the purchase select the blackFoot without electronics, then select the computer system. You will also need to purchase cable for each axis at your desired length.
I would like to do a review on your 4x8 table, we are the new kids in town looking to give honest reviews no BS. We want no affiliate bonus or sponsorship we only ask for free product so that we can educate ourselfs and others while giving honest feedback

What organization are you with and how will you use the CNC?
I would be using this machine in Fiji. MDF delaminates over time here. How would I protect the machine from delamination?

I WOULD CONSIDER USING A BOARD MADE OUT OF CLOTH AND RESIN AND IS USED IN ELECTRICAL AREAS AS AN INSULATOR. IT IS USUALLY A DARK RED/BROWN IN COLOR AND COMES IN DIFFERENT SIZES. IT IS VERY STRONG AND HEAVY. I DO NOT RECALL THE NAME OF IT, BUT POWER COMPANY LINEMEN HAVE ACCESS TO IT AS IT IS USED IN HIGH VOLTAGE AREAS. Response: I FOUND A LINK FOR YOU TO SEE WHAT I AM DESCRIBING. HERE IS THE LINK.. www.electricalinsulationmaterial.com Response: Currently our machines are made out of MDO (Medium Density Overlay) plywood, and are used in the construction industry for cement forming. They come lightly coated for moisture protection. Some possibilities for protecting the machine could be: Painting the structural parts with a oil based paint Coating the structural parts with a protectant sealant (polyurethane) Please try to avoid getting any coating or paints on the steel components. Additional Information: Additional Information:
I purchased a Blackfoot 4ft X 8ft in 2015 I have yet to run it. Do y�all offer any classes that can help me?? I would very much like to have this machine running. Thank you in Dayton Tx

Come on over and we will assist you in any way you need.
I purchased a 4ft X 8ft Blackfoot CNC machine in 2015 and to this date have not been able to use it. How can I get some help. Thank u

What problems are you having?
I need the blackfoot gantry, the red frog router mount, redfrog plug and play with the vacuum pump and pipes connected. Please give me a quote.

For complicated requests, please refer to our (customerservice@buildyourcnc.com) email. For further help, now this apply's to a custom machine, I would request a post in our R&D section.
I need a customised blackfoot without spindle but mount for vacuum pump pick and place.What software do I need and what's the quote

We currently do not have that application implemented in our design. please suggest this in our R/D section (http://buildyourcnc.com/ResDev.aspx).
I have a Blackfoot that was purchased in 2017, after the purchase we moved and I haven�t been able to find room for it... would you be interested in buying it back or trading for something smaller. The Blackfoot and computer have never run but I did purchase it assembled. Thanks in advance, scott

The blackFoot uses the same electronics and motors as the blackToe (2'x4') machine. The only parts that change are the gantry horizontal structural parts which may be relatively easy for you to change. We can send you those parts if you are interested in a smaller unit.
I have a Blackfoot 4x4 v2 chain drive. my Y plate is broken . do you sell just the Y plate or can I buy just the Y plate spec plan? I love this machine Its great. my name is Jeff Krug I bought the complete package and electronics from you guys. thanks

Sure, email me at customerservice@buildyourcnc.com and I will send you a replacement for a minimal fee. I now use HDPE for that part. The HDPE holds up much better.
I have a 4x8 CNC and would like to cut my own parts for the Blackfoot. What is the price for the plans and the electronics ?

The available options for the blackFoot, is only structural components with hardware, and structure components/hardware with electronic components. However we currently do not have any plans available for public use/distribution.
I bought an used machine that need work how can I find the model. The owner said, he used this site for parts and manual.

If you purchased a machine that was used and you don't know which mode it is, you can browse our models here: https://www.buildyourcnc.com/Item/milling
I am putting together the Blackfoot and I am using a porter cable router. I am confused on how to relay the routetr with the USB board. is there another relay switch that goes between the USB board and the router so that planet CNC can turn the router and perhaps the vacuum on and off?

We are currently working on a relay board that will connect to USB breakout board, and the router/spindle for both the on/off function. Unfortunately we still do not have it completed or ready to be placed on our website, but it is in the final stages of testing. Please check back regularly for updated stock! Here is a link to a tutorial for a DIY relay circuit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJO_XoLL6lQ There is no vacuum control on the Planet-CNC program, however you could use the same concept of the router/spindle on/off using the relay circuit. Although you will have to use either the flood or mist function for the vacuum.
I am getting a certain amount of offset on my 2nd machining pass on my blackfoot. I am preparing to go back and make sure everything is tight, however is it possible to overtighten the chains and sprockets. Is there a general rule of thumb to increase rigidity?

The chain should be tensioned the same on both sides, and you should have some slack and not have it too tight. The bearings should be tightly secured as well. There is another probable cause, which is the rod, where the sprocket is tighten to. Since the rod is circular the sprocket screws, cannot securely tighten the rod, which you can file where the 2 screws rest to have a flat surface or if you have a welder you can tack weld the sprocket to the rod.
HOW DO I SQUARE MY CNC MACHINE OR GANTRY?

I use a standard large "L" square used in construction. I run gantry up and down with the bit along one side of the square to make the square aligned with the x-axis. I then run the bit along the other edge and if I see space from the edge of the bit to the square, I adjust the gantry square by loosening and tightening the eye bolts that hold the chain at the ends of the table. Repeat as necessary to get the desired square. Additional Information:
how do I build the blackfoot?

the blackFoot is built using the online instructions found here: http://buildyourcnc.com/Item/cnc-machine-blackFoot-v4
Hi is the blackfoot 8x4 cnc router sold by anyone in the UK or would I need to import it from yourself?

We are in talks with someone in the UK on distributing our machines. I will provide further information on this FAQ when I have more information.
Having some repeatability issues on Y axis of the blackFoot CNC Router. doing motor tuning, but also notice the Y axis idler pulley doesn't stand up straight. Bearing seems good, just loose on the bolt. Do i try to shim between bearing to bolt or shim the sides to make it stay up straight?

First, make sure that the alignment of the roller chain is straight with respect to where the roller chains are affixed at the ends of the gantry. This is of chief importance as there will be a clicking sound if there is no alignment. Also, make sure the idler sprocket can move from side to side to auto-correct on alignment, unless you can fit nuts or shim washers on either side to maintain the perfect position with respect to the alignment of the chain. The misalignment of the chain is most likely the reason the idler sprocket is slanted at an angle. If you are having repeatibility issues, make sure the drive sprocket is very tight on the motor shaft, and that the set screw is tightened on the flat of the stepper motor shaft. This is the typical culprit if any of the axes are having repeatability problems. It is difficult to determine if the drive sprocket is loose. Make sure to push with a bit of force to determine this. Additional Information: ok, took the y axis apart. Checked the drive sprocket. it seems tight. Although I did not take it off and put it back on. Checked the chain alignment edge to edge using a straight edge along the y drive rail and no clicking. tightened the chain and seemed to have it now off the same distance to the other side of the Y. I lossened it back up but no noticeable change. using Mach3 spindle not running, just a pointer bit in and feed rate 50ipm 9k line gcode it's off by about .1 to .14 (ran code 4 different times, once in opposite corner of table) 130k gcode it's off 1.3 to 1.5 (ran code 4 different times, once in opposite corner of table). Not sure what to do, using the using the mach3 motor tuning it seems really close, and it's always the Y. should I swap wiring on the x & y drivers to see if problem goes to X? Additional Information: You can give the swap a try. It would rule out a possible wiring/driver/motor issue. If that doesn't work, we will need to go email so we can see pics to get a clearer understanding of the issue. Additional Information: So, I couldn't swap X and Y as X has a big honkin' motor. So I swapped the Driver for Y and Z, ran the same 130k line gcode and Y was spot on, but now Z is off. it was only off by .01 but there wasn't as much Z movement as there was Y of course. To me this would point to the driver. What do you think?
Am I supposed to drill a hole in the back of the gantry to access the wires for the motor?? There does not seem to be a way to access the wires for the x axis motor once the gantry back is installed.

The installation of the motor inside the gantry is mounted and wired before installation of the back plate of the gantry. For Example, our blackFoot machine seen in steps(124/139), you can see that the gantry and and z axis is complete finished before back plate is placed.
BlackFoot CNC: Where should z-axis limit switches be placed?

The limit switch for the z-axis should be placed in a location where nothing can interfere with CNC process, now for our blackFoot, referring to step 115(https://www.buildyourcnc.com/blackFoot48v40.aspx#prettyPhoto/120/) it will be placed 1-1/4"(may be adjusted) down from the top wood piece(vacuum holder). So contact will be made from the location of the anti-backlash nut wood piece and the limit switch stopping it from going to high.
BLACKTOE MOTOR CABLE LENGTH

The total length of cable for the greenBull 5x is 50 ft. Now the individual lengths for all three axis, is x=15 ft, y=17 ft, z=18 ft.
BLACKFOOT SILICON TUBE FOR SPINDLE

The Black foot requires 38 feet of 1/4 Inside Diameter and 3/8 Outside Diameter silicon tube for the spindle.
Can the 40w Laser combo be mounted on the Black Foot 8x4 router?

Currently, the 40W laser tube can be mounted on the greenBull and the blackTooth machine kits. The gantry on the blackFoot CNC machine kit has a height that would not be able to to support the laser tube very well. The laser tube needs a gantry that has linear rail bearings that are spread apart to minimize any transient response at exact stops and changes in direction.
are pdf/breakdown plans and specs available for purchase for blacktoe 4x8 router? i would like to purchase plans, and build all components by myself. thanks!

We do not currently provide any plans for our machines. We do provide a scratch build kit with plans, DVD, and hardware. You can find it here https://www.buildyourcnc.com/cnckitintro.aspx Additional Information: WE are a technical school and would like to build a laser cutter for the school that can cut up to 6mm plate please help us ti find drawings to build it
Can the black foot table be mounted vertically or at a steep angle?

Unfortunately not. The weight of the spindle and the z-axis assembly is too much for the motor to hold its position. If you need a steep angled bed, then the greenLean is the best machine for this purpose and comes with the entire structure where the blackFoot requires you to construct the table.
Can I upgrade my Black Foot 4.0 to the latest version (4.3)?

You may have received the version 4.3 as we did not update the version on the website for a while after shipping the units. The only difference is the 1/2" shaft size for the X axis motor and the nut mounts on the Z/Y plate. If you don't have these improvement, we can send you the parts for a small fee. Call us so we can help you out on this.
can alphacam be used to program blackfoot cncs?

any CAM software that can import a DXF file and create g-code can be used to program a blackFoot CNC.
Can the 4x8 blackfoot be outfitted with some type of reference pins?

Our CNC Routers can be outfitted with other devices and configured in so many ways. However, I'm not familiar with reference pins. Are you referring to input for feedback? Customer response: Looking to add something like this: https://youtu.be/J7kcXfn0HKk Does the Blackfoot have a preset x and y home point so pop up pins will be accurate? Buildyourcnc response: Oh yeah. You can easily add those types of pins to any of out machines. You can even use pins for registration as well so you can machine two sides of your work-piece so the design matches.
Are plans for the blackFoot available?

At this time the blackFoot is not available in plans form. It is too new in the market, however, in the near future this may be an option.
Are the Dust Shoe DXF files available and if not will they

Do you have one of our machines? Additional Information: Yes I have a Blackfoot 4.1 ver. 4'x8' cut area. By the way I love it.
do you offer a 4' x 4' solution?

Depending on the specific kit, we can adjust the length of rails that are included with the kit to fit a 4' x 4' cutting area. Specifically the blackFoot and the greenBull 4' x 8' machines will be a straight forward kit for a 4' x 4' cutting surface! For custom size requests please email: customerservice@buildyourcnc.com, for further assistance.
Do you make blackfoot with leadscrew for x and y axis?

Currently we do not have any lead screw driven machines except our scratch build kit, all other models use either timing belt or are chain driven.
I have a Blackfoot and have a question about the power supply. I currently have a 36V power supply and my machine bogs down, would a 70V or something like that help, or will that blow up my machine? thank you!

I would first check the mechanical parts to ensure smooth motion. Is your machine bogging down during cutting or jogging/rapids? You can increase the voltage to gain a higher speed for rapids/jogging, but make sure the driver can handle this voltage. There should be a max voltage on the driver label. If the bogging down is happening during cutting, either reduce the cutting depth or switch out the drive and motor for the axis that is giving the problem.
Hi, i am having jaggy edges in curve shapes with my blackfoot,it is just like shake movement , any advice in regards? thank you.

Does this happen at any feedrate? This could be a resonance issue if it only happens at a specific feedrate range. You can also try tightening the roller chains on both axes.

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4'x8' CNC Machine (blackFoot)