Spindle Service
Diagnose first. Quote second. Pull only when it has to come out.
Spindles are the most expensive single component on most CNC machines, and they're also the most over-pulled. We do a structured diagnostic before recommending a pull — vibration analysis, runout measurement, taper inspection, drawbar force check — because a $30,000 rebuild on a spindle that just needed a bearing relube is a bad day for everyone.
What's Included
Scope of work
Specific to your machine list and shift count. Custom adjustments are quoted separately.
- Vibration analysis with a calibrated accelerometer at multiple RPM bands
- TIR measurement at the spindle nose and at tool length, with master test bar
- Taper inspection — surface condition, contact pattern (with bluing), repeatability
- Drawbar force measurement (where applicable to the spindle type)
- Bearing temperature trend during a run-up sequence
- Coolant-through-spindle pressure and flow verification
- If pull is recommended: coordination with OEM or third-party rebuild house we trust, including pre-shipment paperwork
- Re-installation, alignment, run-in cycle per OEM procedure, accuracy verification
Why It Matters
The business case
A spindle pull, rebuild, ship, and re-install is typically a 3–6 week downtime window. Avoiding an unnecessary rebuild saves both the cost and the production loss. When a rebuild IS needed, we coordinate the right rebuilder for the job — not every spindle goes to the same shop.
How It Works
The process
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Diagnostic visit
2–4 hours on-site running a structured diagnostic protocol. Written report on findings and recommendation.
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Recommendation
If it's a relube, we relube. If it's a coolant seal, we replace. If it's bearings, we tell you which rebuild house we'd send it to and why. If it's not the spindle, we tell you that too.
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Pull (if needed)
Spindle pull, packaging, freight to the rebuilder. We coordinate the paperwork and stay in the loop on the rebuild quote.
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Re-install + run-in
Reinstall, alignment, OEM run-in procedure, accuracy verification with ballbar. Documented run-up curve attached to the WO closeout.
Common Questions
FAQ
How long does a typical rebuild take?
Standard rebuild turnaround is 2–4 weeks at most reputable rebuild houses, plus 1–2 weeks freight on either end. Rush turnarounds available at premium pricing.
Can you provide a loaner spindle?
Sometimes — depends on the spindle type and what we have access to. Ask early; loaner availability is a key planning factor.
Warranty on rebuild work?
Standard rebuild warranty is 12 months from re-install date for parts and labor on the rebuild itself. Specific terms vary by rebuilder and are documented in the rebuild quote before we ship.
How do I know it's actually the spindle?
That's exactly what the diagnostic visit answers. We've seen 'bad spindles' that turned out to be a coolant pump, an unbalanced toolholder, or a draw-bar issue. The diagnostic is structured to localize the actual root cause.
Other Services
Also worth a look
Preventive Maintenance
Scheduled inspections and service that catch failures before they cost you a shift. Coverage tailored to your machines and run hours.
Learn moreEmergency Repair
Machine down? We respond to emergency calls within 15 minutes during business hours and prioritize PM-contract customers for same-day dispatch.
Learn moreAccuracy Testing & Ballbar
Ballbar diagnostics, geometry verification, and laser calibration. Quantify what your machine is actually holding before a part goes scrap.
Learn moreRequest Service
Tell us about your machine and the issue. We respond to emergency calls within 15 minutes during business hours.
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