I just made this part last week, talk about good timing for the community challenge.
Let me start off by saying I love the Bitsetter, it saves a bunch of time and hassle by automating the z offsets when changing bits. However, I have always wanted to use it with larger bits, like the Whiteside 6210 surfacing bit in my case. The geometry of most of these bits have some sort of open/recessed centers, this would give you an incorrect offset with the Bitsetter as is. So my simple solution was to make a larger diameter head/disc that would thread into the existing plunger. At least until I get a lathe that could make it as a single piece. But since I could make this on the Shapeoko right now with some leftover brass I had on hand, I figured I would see if the concept works.
The most difficult part about this part was figuring out how to cut the threads. I referenced the NYC CNC videos about threadmilling to figure out the PDO. Once I had the figured out and tested the fitment on some scrap stock, it was pretty straight forward to make. The only downside is it now blocks the indicator light on the top, I may move that to the front of the module by drilling a small hole and then using a small piece of plastic that bends and acts as a fiber optic.
After doing some initial testing and having used it a few time since installing it, the accuracy and consistency still seems to be within a thousandth (.001). So for me this is a win. This will definitely come in handy when making this years xmas gifts for various family members on the CNC.
Now I just need work on what was next on my list of improvements, making some tool organizers like @WillAdams linked to.
V1.0.zip (638.6 KB) Cutrocket Link