What to Look for When Buying a Used Takisawa
Takisawa has built precision lathes for over a century, and that shows in the rigidity, accuracy, and long service life of their turning centers. Here's what to check on a used machine.
Check spindle condition, bearings, and runout. Measure runout at the nose, listen for bearing noise across the full RPM range, and verify thermal stability after warm-up. A spindle that drifts as it heats suggests worn bearings. Factor bearing replacement into any deal on a high-hour machine.
Test the turret index and tool stations. Cycle the turret through every station and verify tool position with a test indicator. On live-tooling machines, run each driven station under load to confirm smooth operation with no gear, coupling, or drawbar wear.
Verify ballscrew backlash and way condition. Measure backlash on X and Z (and Y on TMM models). Any measurable backlash indicates ballscrew or nut wear. Inspect way covers, confirm lubrication, and check ways for scoring. On sub-spindle machines, test the handoff for reliable part transfer.
Identify the Fanuc control generation. Takisawa uses Fanuc almost exclusively. Older machines run Fanuc 0 or 0i, mid-generation ship with 18i or 21i, and newer lathes feature 31i or 32i with expanded memory and Ethernet. Matching the control to your shop simplifies training and programming.
Takisawa Flat-Bed CNC Turning Centers
TC Series (Flat-Bed Turning Centers)
The TC series is Takisawa's flagship flat-bed turning center and the most commonly traded on the used market. Models include the TC-1, TC-2, TC-3, TC-20, and TC-30. Standard configuration: Fanuc control, 8- or 10-inch chuck, 8- or 12-station turret, with optional Y-axis, sub-spindle, and live tooling.
TS Series (Compact Flat-Bed Lathes)
The TS series (TS-4000 and variants) offers compact, cost-effective flat-bed CNC turning for smaller parts and lower-volume runs. TS lathes are common in tool rooms, prototype shops, and training environments.
Takisawa Slant-Bed & Production Turning
TCN Series (Slant-Bed Turning Centers)
The TCN series (TCN-2100, TCN-2400, TCN-25 and related models) steps up to slant-bed construction for higher rigidity, improved chip flow, and heavier cuts than the TC line, with optional Y-axis and sub-spindle.
EX Series (High-Production Turning)
The EX series (EX-110, EX-310, EX-510 and similar) is built for high-production turning: rigid slant-bed construction, fast rapids, and fast tool changes. EX machines are widely deployed by automotive tier suppliers where cycle time and uptime drive profitability.
LA Series (Legacy CNC Lathes)
The LA series (LA-150, LA-200, LA-250) represents earlier-generation Takisawa CNC lathes still running in North American job shops. Rugged, parts-supported, and a proven entry-level used CNC lathe.
Takisawa Twin-Turret & Turn-Mill
TMM Series (Turn-Mill with Y-Axis)
The TMM series (TMM-250 and variants) combines turning with full milling via Y-axis, live tooling turret, and typically a sub-spindle for done-in-one production. TMM machines are popular in medical, aerospace, and high-precision automotive work.
TT Series (Twin-Turret Lathes)
The TT series (TT-1500, TT-1600, TT-2000 and similar) doubles productivity by running two independent turrets simultaneously. Twin-turret Takisawa lathes excel at medium-to-high-volume production of shafts and flanges where cycle time is the primary cost driver.
How to Sell Your Used Takisawa
Takisawa machines hold strong resale value thanks to Japanese build quality, Fanuc compatibility, and decades of proven service. TC, TCN, EX, and TMM series are in high demand, with live-tooling and Y-axis variants commanding a premium.
Resell CNC buys used Takisawa machines, every model, every generation, 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 Takisawa Machines
Are used Takisawa machines reliable?
Yes. Takisawa is known for rugged cast-iron construction, long-life spindles, and rigid bed design. With proper maintenance, these lathes regularly run for decades in production.
What CNC control does Takisawa use?
Fanuc controls almost exclusively. Older machines may have Fanuc 0 or 0i, mid-generation models ship with 18i or 21i, and newer lathes feature 31i or 32i. Fanuc compatibility makes Takisawa easy to integrate into existing shops.
What should I inspect before buying a used Takisawa?
Focus on spindle runout, turret index accuracy, ballscrew backlash on all axes, way condition, and Fanuc control generation. On live-tooling or sub-spindle models, test driven stations under load and verify sub-spindle handoff.
What Takisawa models hold their value best?
TC and TCN series, EX high-production lathes, and TMM turn-mill machines all maintain strong resale values. Live tooling, Y-axis, and sub-spindle configurations command premium pricing. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
Where are Takisawa machines manufactured?
Takisawa's primary plant is in Okayama, Japan, founded in 1919. Many current models are built at Takisawa Taiwan (TTT) in Taichung. Both facilities operate under the same quality standards.
Is Takisawa still in business?
Yes. Takisawa Machine Tool Co., Ltd. remains an active CNC lathe builder headquartered in Okayama, Japan, with manufacturing in Japan and Taiwan. Parts and service are available through the authorized dealer network.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Takisawa machines?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help you acquire the equipment you need. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Takisawa?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every Takisawa model, nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.