What to Look for When Buying a Used Acra Machine
Acra machines are built for reliable production across a wide range of metalworking applications. Here is what to inspect before purchasing a used unit.
On lathes, check the spindle, bed wear, and tailstock alignment. Measure spindle runout at the nose and bore. Inspect bed ways for scoring or uneven wear, particularly near the chuck end. Verify tailstock alignment with a test bar between centers. On gap bed models, confirm the gap insert seats flush. Check the threading gearbox for smooth engagement across all pitches.
On milling machines, inspect the spindle, table, and ways. Measure spindle runout with a test indicator in the taper. Check knee and table ways for excessive play under cutting load. On knee mills, verify the quill feeds smoothly. On bed mills, confirm the spindle head travels evenly along the column. Test power feed on all axes.
On surface grinders, verify the spindle, magnetic chuck, and table travel. Listen for bearing noise at full RPM and check for vibration that would produce chatter marks. Confirm the magnetic chuck holds parts firmly and releases cleanly. Inspect table ways and verify smooth travel across the full stroke.
On all machines, check electrical systems and readouts. Many used Acra machines include digital readout (DRO) systems. Test DRO accuracy against a known standard. Inspect wiring, contactors, and motor starters for overheating. On CNC models, verify the control powers up cleanly, homes all axes without fault, and runs test programs accurately.
Acra Lathes
Engine Lathes
Acra engine lathes come in swing sizes from 13 through 30 inches, with bed lengths from 40 to over 120 inches between centers. These geared-head machines feature hardened and ground ways, multi-speed spindle ranges, and inch/metric threading. The 14x40 and 16x60 configurations are the most commonly traded on the used market.
Gap Bed Lathes
Acra gap bed lathes feature a removable section in front of the chuck that increases maximum swing for large-diameter workpieces such as flanges, pulleys, and brake rotors. Swing-over-gap sizes reach up to 10 inches beyond standard swing-over-bed, making these lathes popular in maintenance and repair shops.
CNC Lathes
Acra CNC turning centers are equipped with Fanuc or Fagor controls and offer 2-axis turning with optional live tooling, bridging the gap between manual lathe work and full CNC production.
Acra Milling Machines
Vertical Knee Mills
Acra vertical knee mills follow the Bridgeport-style configuration with vertical head, knee-and-column construction, and R8 or NT30 spindle taper. Table sizes range from 9x42 to 10x54 inches. Variable-speed and step-pulley models are both available on the used market.
Bed Type Mills & CNC Machining Centers
Acra bed mills provide greater rigidity than knee mills by mounting the table on a fixed bed, supporting heavier cuts and larger workpieces. Acra CNC vertical machining centers feature Fanuc or Fagor controls, automatic tool changers, and enclosed work envelopes for programmable production.
Acra Grinders, Drills & Saws
Surface Grinders
Acra surface grinders range from compact 6x18-inch models for tool room work through 12x24 and 16x32-inch machines for production grinding. Manual and hydraulic table configurations are available with precision crossfeed and permanent magnetic chucks.
Radial Arm Drills & Band Saws
Acra radial arm drills are available in arm lengths from 3 through 6 feet, with column diameters scaled to match. Acra band saws cover cutting capacities from small bar stock through large structural sections, with manual and semi-automatic feed options.
How to Sell Your Used Acra
Acra machines hold steady resale value thanks to the brand's reputation for reliable performance and a large installed base across North American shops.
Resell CNC buys used Acra machines of every type, every size, nationwide.
- Contact us at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, no obligation.
- Accept the offer and we handle rigging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Acra Machines
Are used Acra machines reliable?
Yes. Acra machines are built in Taiwan with hardened and ground components, cast iron construction, and proven mechanical designs. With proper maintenance, Acra lathes, mills, and grinders deliver decades of productive service.
What CNC controls does Acra use?
Acra CNC models use Fanuc or Fagor controls. Manual machines may include DRO systems from various manufacturers.
What should I inspect before buying a used Acra?
Focus on spindle runout, way condition, and alignment. On lathes, run a test bar between centers. On mills, test for play in the knee and table ways under load. On grinders, listen for spindle bearing noise and inspect the magnetic chuck. On all machines, verify electrical systems and DRO accuracy if equipped.
What Acra models hold their value best?
Engine lathes in the 14 to 20-inch swing range, vertical knee mills with variable-speed heads, and precision surface grinders consistently maintain strong resale values. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
Where are Acra machines manufactured?
Acra machines are manufactured in Taiwan. The brand maintains a US distribution and parts network, ensuring replacement components remain available for current and older models.
What industries use Acra machines?
Acra equipment is widely used in job shops, tool rooms, maintenance departments, educational institutions, prototyping facilities, and general manufacturing.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Acra machines?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help your business acquire the equipment it needs. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Acra?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every type of Acra machine, nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.