Precision Matthews 1340 control panel light relocation

[1silica]

I want to relocate the indicator light from it's factory position but am stumped by how it's installed.
I thought the raised lip on the front side was a locking or snap ring, no luck, it's molded in place

I can't figure out how to pry the backside apart either. I don't want to get too aggressive and bust the darn thing. Below are pics of the front and backside of said light. If I can move this light the control panel for the VFD will fit nicely. Perhaps you have a better place for the VFD control. I'd love to see a pic of where you placed your VFD control. Any help for this newbie would be appreciated.

 

[John O]

Is it threaded? the ring may unscrew

 

[1silica]

Is it threaded? the ring may unscrew

The ring seems to be a molded flange, part of the switch. It does not move.

 

[mksj]

It may be a bayonet type were you loosen the back screws and then push in and twist the front to unlock, the previous ones just had a threaded plastic washer on the back. Separate to that, mounting a VFD control panel to control the VFD/run commands is a bad idea on a lathe because you cannot respond fast enough and you will be fumbling for the controls. Better to rewire the For/Rev contactors to switch the VFD inputs that control the run direction. That way all the controls work normally on the machine as if it was wired for 3 phase.

Pm1340gt Lathe Basic Vfd Control Conversion Using The Stock Control Board And Switches

Many individuals buy the PM1340GT lathe as a 3 phase machine with the intent to convert it over to a VFD system, the usual VFD that is used is the Hitachi WJ200-015SF. Unfortunately the conversion often requires a somewhat complex and costly conversion process to optimize many of the VFD...

www.hobby-machinist.com

 

[Kiwi Canuck]

Did you get your answer to the question on how to remove the light, if not I have mine off and in a box in the shop which I can go look in the AM if you need.

BTW Mark Jacobs is our resident guru on VFD's so you may want to hit him up for options on how you can add the VFD system you have planned.

I used Marks design and wiring diagrams to install a Hitachi VFD and and it works flawlessly, as have many others on this forum.

David.

 

[xr650rRider]

I destroyed mine getting them loose as I had replacements, but I think there were tabs, you had to release from the backside in order for them to be able to be separated.