What to Look for When Buying a Used Chevalier
Chevalier machines are built with Meehanite cast-iron construction and hand-scraped guideway surfaces — qualities that deliver long service life and lasting accuracy. Here are the inspection points specific to used Chevalier equipment.
On surface grinders, inspect the spindle and chuck. Chevalier grinders use high-precision cartridge-type spindles with Class 7 (P4) angular contact ball bearings. Check for bearing noise across the full RPM range and measure spindle runout (under 0.0002" TIR on a precision grinder). Inspect the magnetic chuck for flatness and consistent holding force. On CNC SMART models, verify the wheel dresser and all programmed grinding cycles operate correctly.
Check the table, guideways, and hydraulics. Chevalier grinders feature hand-scraped, Turcite-B coated double-V guideways. Look for scoring or evidence of dry running. On automatic models, verify the hydraulic system for leaks and smooth table traversal. Test the programmable incremental downfeed mechanism — this is the heart of any automatic Chevalier grinder's precision.
On VMCs and lathes, verify the control and mechanicals. Chevalier uses Fanuc controls on machining centers and lathes — widely available operator expertise and service. Test all axis movements, verify ballscrew backlash, cycle the tool changer through every pocket, and check the coolant and chip evacuation systems.
Chevalier Surface Grinders
FSG Manual and Automatic Grinders
The FSG-618M is one of the most popular toolroom grinders in North America — a 6" × 18" manual with 2 HP spindle and roller-bearing table. The FSG-818SP adds the Super Precision package with linear ball bearings and D2-hardened guideways. The FSG-2A (semi-auto) and FSG-3A (3-axis auto) series add progressive automation. The FSG-AD and ADIV series deliver fully automatic precision grinding from 10" × 20" through 24" × 60" with microprocessor-controlled incremental downfeed. The FSG-1224AD and FSG-1632AD are the most commonly traded Chevalier grinders on the used market.
SMART Series CNC Grinders
The SMART-B (surface) and SMART-H (profile) series feature Chevalier's proprietary SMART iControl with touchscreen programming — no G-code required. Available from 8" × 18" to 24" × 160", with cycles for surface, profile, form, step, index, and creep-feed grinding. Automatic dressing with compensation. The SMART-B818III received the Taiwan Excellence Award. Chevalier also builds cylindrical grinders (CGP series), double-sided fine grinders (FDG-700), and the advanced FGC5X-600 5-axis grinding center.
Chevalier VMCs, Bridge Mills & 5-Axis
The QP-L series is Chevalier's primary VMC line — linear guideways, rapids to 1,891 IPM, cast-iron construction, and Fanuc controls. Sizes from QP1620-L (20" × 16" × 15") through QP2560-L (60" × 25" × 24"). The EM series offers the same design at a more accessible price point. The UNi5X-400 and UNi5X-800 deliver 5-axis simultaneous machining with inverted Y-shape columns for aerospace, medical, and mold work. The FVM-DCL and FVM-DC series are double-column bridge mills with oversized columns, extra-wide box-way spacing, 30 HP CAT 50 spindles, and X travels up to 133" for large-workpiece applications.
Chevalier CNC Lathes
The FBL series slant-bed lathes range from the compact FBL-230 through the heavy-duty FBL-530 (60 HP, 7.5" bore for oil field work). All feature 45-degree Meehanite beds with torque-tube design. MC variants add live tooling. The FCL series teach-in lathes combine manual, teach, and CNC modes — ideal for small-batch production and training. The FNL-220LSY is Chevalier's multi-axis turning/milling center with sub-spindle and ±2.17" Y-axis. The FVL series vertical turning lathes (1250/1600/2000VTC) handle the heaviest workpieces with combined turning, milling, drilling, tapping, and grinding in one setup.
How to Sell Your Used Chevalier
Chevalier surface grinders have one of the largest installed bases of any grinder brand in the US, creating consistent used market demand. The Meehanite construction ages well — machines maintain accuracy over decades with proper maintenance.
Resell CNC buys used Chevalier machines — every type, every model, nationwide.
- Contact us — call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours — no obligation.
- Accept the offer — we handle rigging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Chevalier Machines
Are used Chevalier machines reliable?
Yes. Meehanite cast-iron construction with stress-relieved, hand-scraped guideways delivers long-term accuracy and durability. Chevalier surface grinders are known for decades of dependable service in demanding toolroom and production environments.
What CNC control does Chevalier use?
Fanuc controls on most VMCs and lathes (0i-M, 0i-T, 31i). CNC grinders use Chevalier's proprietary SMART iControl — a touchscreen system with conversational programming, no G-code required. Fanuc's widespread use means trained operators are readily available.
What should I inspect before buying a used Chevalier grinder?
Prioritize spindle condition (runout, bearing noise, taper wear), table and guideway flatness, magnetic chuck holding force, hydraulic system integrity on automatic models, and wheel dresser diamond condition. On SMART CNC models, verify all programmed grinding cycles and touchscreen responsiveness.
Where are Chevalier machines manufactured?
Chevalier machines are built by Falcon Machine Tools Co., Ltd. in Changhua, Taiwan, with additional manufacturing in Suzhou, China. ISO 9001 certified facilities with in-house R&D, machining, and electronic departments. Chevalier Machinery Inc. in Santa Fe Springs, California provides US sales, service, and parts support.
What Chevalier models hold their value best?
FSG-series automatic grinders (especially 1224AD and 1632AD sizes), SMART-series CNC grinders, QP-L series VMCs, FVM double-column bridge mills, and FBL lathes with live tooling all maintain solid resale values. Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 for current market valuations.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Chevalier 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 financing terms on any Chevalier in our inventory.
How do I sell my used Chevalier?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every type, age, and condition — nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours, and we handle all rigging and transportation.