CNC Router Kit Version 2.2:Blacktoe 4'x8'

blackToe 4'x8' routing area Version 2.2 CNC Machine Kit: Depreciated (4.+ Version here)

blackToe 4'x8' routing area Version 2.2 CNC Machine Kit without electronics: Depreciated (4.+ Version here)

This page remains online for legacy purposes only.

See the section below for an itemized part list with prices

About the blackToe 4x8:

Update: The blackToe is up to version 2.2 with one enhancement. There are now side supports on the gatry sides to reduce or eliminate any side to side vibration.

Roller chain is the primary method of moving the x and y axes. Roller chain is my chosen method for two reasons. First, the cost is relatively low. For the users of this site, cost is a big factor. It's hard to scrounge-up money with garage DIYers and hobbyists. Second, for a 4'x8' machine, lead screws appropriate for the travel lengths are cost prohibitive and the lesser diameter lead screws have a tendency to whip.

My tests with the roller chain proved to be highly successful, but there have been challenges. It is impossible to find sprocket hubs for 1/4" diameter shafts, so I used a collar as a spacer between the shaft and the bore of the sprocket. An idler sprock is also used only to provide a good grip for the drive sprocket. Another challenge was the need to sculpt the parts as I assembled everything together. During the design phase of this version, I did not allow acces to the set screws, so out came the jig saw. The new parts for this machine will have access areas provided for ease of assembly and maintenance.

The video provided show the mechanism in action. The roller chain and sprocket allow for very fast rapids at 1000+ipm. I pushed it to 1500 ipm without problems. Of course, with faster speeds, the resolution (steps per inch) decreases linearly. The steps per inch calculation is based on the pitch diameter of the driver sprocket (the sprocket connected to the motor shaft). At one quarter microstepping, the steps per inch is approximately 174. This is like saying 174 dots per inch. At 1/64 microstepping, the resolution is approximately 2,784. These numbers are typical for machines of this size due to their drive mechanisms (rack and pinion, belt or roller chain). With this purchase, you will receive a machine that will open up a whole world of automated fabrication.

Prices next to the item is the value if purchased separately:

Parts included:

• Hardware: nuts, screws, washers, etc. (about 700 pieces): $120
• MDF Structure: priceless
• V-Groove Bearings: $240 (16 @ $15 each)
• Ball Bearings (1/2"): $5 (2 @ $2.50 each)
• 1/2" Collars: $15.90 (2 @ $7.95)
• 1/4" to 1/2" Coupling: $11.00
• Roller Chain and Sprockets: $270 (2 10' combos @ $98 and a 5' combo @ $74)
• Lead Screw for Z-axis: $30
• Lead Nut for Z-axis: $25
• Braces: $10
• Cross Dowels: $42.00
• Aluminum rails x-axis 4 @ 8', 4 @ 2', 2 y-axis, and 2 z-axis: $100
• Electronics: 4 motors, 4 drivers, breakout board, power supply: $570

Parts not included:

• Computer (Personal Preference)
• Software (Personal Preference)
• Router (Personal Preference although I recommend Porter Cable 2.25 HP 800 series)
• Table (too large to send)

Shipping:

• Domestic shipments will be $120 shipping and handling
• International shipments are $600 not including duty, customs, tarriffs, or any of the other surprises that are associated with international shipments. If the actual cost is lower than my flat rate, the difference will be refunded.
• If paypal does not ask for your shipping adress, please email me your address using this form (the Contact Us page).

Supplemental Assembly Videos

To assist with the assembly of the 4x8 blackToe CNC Machine, here is a three part series as a suppliment 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.

Part 1: The new gantry structure:

Table specifications for the blackToe CNC Kit:

The table width should be between 49 and 50 inches. The table length should be 10 feet.

Overhangs will be needed for the two long sides at 2 inches to make room for the sprocket components.

Two methods of support can be used. The upper is a simple frame using 2x4 studs. The structure below is the same with the addition of a torsion box for rigidity.

Other Purchase Options:

The below options were requests by customers that are mainly overseas and didn't want the expense of shipping the MDF.

blackToe 4'x8' routing area Version 2.2 g-code files for the MDF pieces: Depreciated (4.+ Version here)
I am offering the .nc files due to overwhelming requests. These need to be run on a CNC machine. The price is factored by many aspects of the research and development of the blackToe machine and that this website survives by the sales of these machines. Remember that these files are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial and are have copyright restrictions.

For the g-code execution: Each board measures 2'x4' with a 1" clear border to maintain structure while routing. The z-axis is positioned where the tip of the end mill meets the surface of the material to enable easy cutting with a flat end 1/4" end mill, the depth per pass is set at 0.17".

If you are considering purchasing the g-code, you may wonder, it would be great if the hardware and mechanical stuff excluding the MDF could be offered and not be burdened with scouring this site and picking the parts one-by-one. Well, here is the xMDF (excluding MDF) kit: The below kits do not include the g-code or dxf files for the machine, you will need to purchase this separately.

blackToe xMDF 4x8 Kit with electroincs: Depreciated (4.+ Version here)
Note: Includes no MDF pieces or g-code/dxf

blackToe xMDF 4x8 Kit without electronics: Depreciated (4.+ Version here)
Note: Includes no MDF pieces or g-code/dxf