M15 cnc7 - cant use Z axis manually

[Mclamb marine]

After running/programming large machines for years, for other people, im finally opening my own small shop. I just got this Atrump knee mill and going through learning it, realized that I cannot move the Z axis /quill manually , as the the servo is still engaged , even after selecting the "free" option in the controls (only shows X & Y "free). everything else seems to be working correctly. Bear with me ,as I am new to these smaller machines and the Centroid controls.

[cncsnw]

You can free all axes, including Z, by pressing and then releasing Emergency Stop.

You can also free all axes by running "M93" at the F3/MDI prompt, then pressing Cycle Cancel or ESC to close the MDI prompt.

However, even with the Z axis servo motor free, you will probably not be able to operate the Z by hand, because it is too hard to back-drive the ballscrew by pulling on the quill handle.

Some quill drive systems (e.g. the one designed by Elrod Machine) have a quick disconnect, to free the quill from the ballscrew. Your quill drive probably does not.

Invest your time in learning to use the "Intercon" conversational programming to drill holes. Maybe keep your drill press or your manual Bridgeport too.

[Mclamb marine]

thanks! Thats likely the reason the quill handle and hub was broken when I got it! I have my trusty old Index manual in the corner for the handle work.