Summary:
This is a super simple install for attaching a cheap digital scale (shars) to the X axis of a grizzly 704 mill. Since I wasn't able to find any good build logs that use the stock mounting hardware and don't require drilling new holes, I have included one below.
Thoughts:
I had originally been intending to install the X and Y scales (which I got together shortly after I bought the mill) over spring break. But decided to put the X axis on now, since I think it will be helpful for my steam engine project.
It is worth noting that these scales are really only meaningfully accurate to a few thou. For what I'm doing that's fine (I have a dial indicator for more precise work), but if you're reading this and that sounds like a problem, maybe consider getting an official Grizzly DRO.
Links:
Materials:
I bought a 24" Digital Machine Aluminum scale from Shars (the longer of the two above). The Shars scales ship with a convenient set of mounting brackets, but really any clone of the same general nature should do. I also ended up using some washers for mounting the scale reader. The screws, I pulled from Grizzly's original center-indicator and end-stops.. Note: 24 inches ended up being a bit long, so it wouldn't hurt to get something closer to 18, though cutting down a longer scale works just fine.
Build Log:
First, unscrew the 2 end stops and central metal indicator from the front of the mill. Save the screws, we will be using those to mount the X axis scale. (Please forgive the mess, my shop-vac is a bit under the weather. )
Next, hammer one of the L brackets flat. Take care to flip the bracket over frequently, and use a flat metal surface to hammer on. Then, screw the flattened mounting bracket to the back of the slide, with the central hole pointing upwards, towards the slide's cord.
File the oblong hole on the central mounting bracket and two end brackets such that they easily pass the screws from earlier. We will use these to attach the brackets to the front of the mill.
Finally, take the flattened metal plate (see previous steps) and file the lower hole until it easily passes one of the mounting screws. Then, screw the plate to the back of the scale reader and screw the plate and two mounting brackets to the mill. Take care to ensure that the output wire for the scale won't interfere with your vice (or other workholding setup.)
