Thanks oldred, I had seen the head drop problem mentioned but did not understand. I am thinking a pulley rigged to the mast would leave it movable, or maybe a separate mast and counterweight attached to a rolling/locking base. Thanks for the info on the motor. If milling pays and I need a bigger mill I will go there. I've noticed some guys run short of outside projects and the shop becomes the project.
In my work I often need some part not available off the shelf. I have 4 kinds of welding available to make larger projects. It's the small bits I'm hoping the mill helps with.
I was an offset printing press operator for years. Had a supervisor the stuck his nose in everything and wore an unsecured tie. There Is No Justice.