What to Look for When Buying a Used Fadal
Fadal VMCs built their reputation on being rugged, simple, and highly serviceable, traits that still make them attractive on the used market. Because most Fadal machines are now twenty to forty years old, inspection focus shifts toward spindle condition, control health, and cumulative service history.
Check the spindle and drawbar. Most Fadal VMCs use a 10,000 RPM CAT 40 cartridge spindle, with higher-speed options on HT and HS variants. Measure runout at the taper, listen for bearing noise at low and high RPM, and check the orientation stop on machines equipped with rigid tapping. Spindle cartridges are replaceable and rebuildable, so a worn spindle is not a deal-breaker, but it should be reflected in the price. Verify drawbar tension and inspect the condition of the CAT 40 retention knobs.
Inspect the ATC and tool carousel. Earlier Fadals use a side-mounted umbrella-style ATC (typically 21 pockets), while later VMC 4020HT and EMC machines use a carousel-style changer with higher capacity. Cycle the changer through every pocket and verify repeatable pot alignment, Geneva indexing, and tool clamp function. Rebuild kits and replacement tool pots are widely available.
Verify the control and amplifier boards. Most used Fadals run the Fadal CNC 88 or CNC 88HS control. Boot the machine cold, run through a full axis move, and verify the keyboard, CRT or LCD display, and program memory. The Fadal control is well-documented and supported by aftermarket board repair, but a failed amp or processor board should be factored into your offer.
Check way covers, ballscrews, and lube system. Open the way covers and inspect the X, Y, and Z slide surfaces. Look for scoring, chip ingress, or dry spots indicating a lube pump failure. Measure ballscrew backlash on all axes. Fadal's one-piece cast iron base tends to hold geometry well even after decades of service, but lube-related wear is the most common cause of premature slideway damage.
Fadal VMC Series Overview
Compact: VMC 15 Series
The VMC 15 (roughly 30" x 16" x 20" travels) is Fadal's compact-class machining center, suited for small parts, prototype work, and tool room applications. Variants include the VMC 15XT (extended travels) and VMC 15HT (high-torque spindle). CAT 40 spindle, 21-pocket umbrella ATC, and Fadal CNC 88 control are standard.
Mid-Size: VMC 2216, 3016 & 4020
The VMC 2216 (22" x 16") and VMC 3016 (30" x 16") occupy Fadal's mid-size segment and are widely used in prototype and small-run production. The iconic VMC 4020 (40" x 20" x 20") is Fadal's flagship, the machine that defined American job-shop CNC. The VMC 4020HT adds high-torque spindle, expanded tool capacity, and the Fadal 32MP control option. Used 4020s remain in enormous supply, are among the most easily sourced used VMCs in North America, and are the go-to entry machine for new job shops and apprentice programmers thanks to the simple control and vast documentation library.
Large: VMC 5020, 6030, 8030 & 10000
The VMC 5020 (50" x 20") and VMC 6030 (60" x 30") extend Fadal into larger workpiece envelopes using the same CNC 88 control family and serviceable mechanical architecture. The VMC 8030 (80" x 30") and VMC 10000 (approximately 100" x 30") are the heavy-duty, long-travel machines in Fadal's lineup, commonly used for mold, die, fixture plates, and long-part production.
EMC Generation
Fadal's later EMC (Enhanced Machining Center) variants introduced faster rapid traverse rates, higher spindle RPM options, and Fanuc control availability. EMC machines often carry a premium on the used market thanks to modernized control and spindle packages.
How to Sell Your Used Fadal
Fadal VMCs maintain strong resale value because the installed base is massive, parts and service are widely supported, and the control platform is well understood by American operators. The VMC 4020, 6030, and EMC variants are in particularly high demand.
Resell CNC buys used Fadal VMCs: every model, every generation, nationwide.
- Contact us by phone at (844) 478-8181 or email 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 Fadal Machines
Is Fadal still in business?
Fadal's original manufacturing under the de Caussin family ended with the Giddings & Lewis acquisition in 1988, and production under the later ThyssenKrupp / MAG IAS ownership was discontinued around 2008. However, parts, service, spindle rebuilds, and control repair remain widely available across North America, and Fadal machines are among the most heavily traded brands on the used CNC market.
What CNC control does Fadal use?
Most Fadal VMCs use the proprietary Fadal CNC 88 or CNC 88HS control. Later machines were also offered with the Fadal 32MP control and, on certain EMC variants, Fanuc controls. The Fadal CNC 88 is well-documented, easy to learn, and supported by aftermarket board repair specialists.
Are used Fadal VMCs reliable?
Yes. Fadal built its reputation on rugged, serviceable VMCs with heavy cast iron construction and straightforward mechanical design. Many thirty-plus-year-old Fadal 4020s are still producing parts daily in American job shops, which is the strongest possible proof of long-term reliability.
What should I inspect before buying a used Fadal?
Check spindle runout and bearings, ATC cycle and pot alignment, ballscrew backlash on all axes, way cover condition and lube system function, and the CNC control boot and program memory. Verify the machine runs a full axis move and that rigid tapping (if equipped) operates correctly.
Which Fadal model is the best value on the used market?
The VMC 4020 is the most widely traded and offers the best combination of capability, availability, and parts support. The VMC 15 is the best compact option for tool rooms and small-part work. The VMC 6030 suits larger workpieces without the footprint of the 8030 or 10000.
Can I still get parts for a used Fadal?
Yes. Fadal parts, spindle cartridges, ATC components, way covers, drawbars, and control boards are all widely available through specialized service providers. The large installed base means replacement parts and aftermarket alternatives are easy to source nationwide.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Fadal 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 and application details.
How do I sell my used Fadal?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every Fadal VMC model, every generation, nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.