We use cookies to personalize content, interact with our analytics companies, advertising networks and cooperatives, and demographic companies, provide social media features, and to analyze our traffic. Our social media, advertising and analytics partners may combine it with other information that you’ve provided to them or that they’ve collected from your use of their services. Learn more.
In November 2024, I purchased a Genmitsu 3018 Pro. Not long after, I began upgrading, starting with the expansion upgrade, Z-axis upgrade, and I changed out the 775 spindle motor for a 300W spindle with a PSU.
To me, it wasn’t enough. So, I upgraded the NEMA 17’s to ones that have more torque, upgraded the linear screw on the Y-axis to a 16mm ballscrew, changed out the control unit, added a 2nd PSU, and added an SSR. I also changed the working area to 370mm x 370mm.
Granted, the machine itself was $170, and the upgrades? Um…I…spent $500 in upgrades, screws, extrusions, etc., as there is very little left of the original machine.
At current, all the upgrades are processes in fabricating different sizes of well-built CNC machines that will not cost signing over your first-born child to obtain.
I bought an all metal one just for the heck of it. I was surprised how decent it was. The size is limiting for me, but for a beginner, it would be a decent start. The brass anti backlash nut is a little noisy.
The brass backlash nut is the reason I switched to a ballscrew type…I kept having to disassemble the lead screw to clean it, then spray it with a dry lube. Several projects were either unfinished or destroyed because of the old setup
Wow! That’s an incredible transformation! You’ve basically rebuilt the Genmitsu 3018 Pro into a powerhouse of precision. It’s impressive how methodical you’ve been with each upgrade—boosting torque, refining accuracy, and expanding the workspace. At this point, it’s less of a stock CNC and more of a custom-engineered machine tailored exactly to your needs.
Once you finalize everything and share the instructions, your modifications could be a game-changer for people looking to build high-quality CNCs without breaking the bank. I’d love to hear more about how your final version performs—any unexpected challenges or victories along the way?