What to Look for When Buying a Used Makino
Makino machines are engineered for aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, and die & mold production, and many a51, a61, V33, and V77 units from the late 1990s and 2000s are still in daily service. That longevity is why the used Makino market runs deep, and why inspection matters.
On a-series HMCs, verify spindle, pallet changer, and axes. Measure spindle runout at low and full rpm. a51nx and a61nx ship with 14,000 rpm Cat 40 spindles (240 or 303 Nm, optional 20,000 rpm), and a71nx uses Cat 50. Cycle the ATC through every pocket on 60 or 120-tool magazines. Cycle the APC under load and verify pallet clamp repeatability. On 5-axis variants (a61nx-5E, T1, T2, DUO43), calibrate the B-axis and trunnion and run a test part.
On V-series and graphite mills, inspect spindle and enclosure. V33i, V56, V77, and V80S die & mold machines run high-speed Cat 40 or HSK-A63 spindles at 20,000 to 40,000 rpm. Check runout at the high end. For graphite-specific machines (V22, V33i, V77 graphite), verify dust collection and enclosure seals, since graphite abrasion drives wear.
On EDM, check dielectric and wire path. U-series wire EDMs (U3, U6, U53, U86) rely on clean dielectric and reliable auto-threading. Verify the pump, filter, and auto-thread success rate. On sinker EDMs (EDNC43, EDNC85, EDNC207), inspect the ram, C-axis, and flush tank. H.E.A.T. variants should be verified with a cut at rated speed.
Identify the control platform. Makino uses Fanuc-based controls with Makino Professional 3, 5, and 6 HMI, plus the newer Hyper-i on current models. Legacy machines may use a Makino-branded Fanuc 16i, 18i, 30i, 31i, or 32i. Matching control and software (Super GI.4, Inertia Active Control) to your shop simplifies operator training.
Makino Horizontal Machining Centers
a51nx, a61nx & a71nx (nx-Series)
The a51nx (400mm pallet, 40-taper) and a61nx (500mm pallet, 40-taper) are Makino's flagship production HMCs and the most commonly traded on the used market. Both feature 1G axis acceleration, roller-type linear guides, and 14,000 rpm spindles with 240 or 303 Nm torque. The a71nx steps up to Cat 50 for heavier ferrous work, and a61nx-5E adds full 5-axis capability.
Legacy a-Series & Large HMCs
Legacy a51, a61, a66E, a77, and a81 remain widely traded. The a81, a88, and a92 cover larger pallets and higher-torque 50-taper work. MMC2 pallet pool systems expand any a-series machine into a multi-pallet lights-out cell.
Makino Vertical, 5-Axis & Die/Mold Centers
F-Series, T-Series & DUO43 (5-Axis VMCs)
The F5 and F9 are Makino's 5-axis VMCs for medical, aerospace, and contour work. T1 and T2 target 5-axis aluminum production, and DUO43 delivers 5-axis in a compact footprint.
V-Series & PS-Series
The V33i, V56, V77, V80S, and V90S are high-speed die & mold VMCs, with graphite variants for electrode work. PS65, PS95, PS105, and PS125 deliver production 3-axis VMC performance at strong value.
D-Series & MAG Aerospace Mills
The D200, D300, D500, and D800 die-sinker series handle large mold cavity work. MAG1 and MAG3 are large-envelope 5-axis machines for monolithic aerospace aluminum parts.
Makino EDM & Specialty Machines
Wire EDMs: U3, U6, U53, U86, with H.E.A.T. and HQSF options. Sinker EDMs: EDNC6, EDNC43, EDNC85, EDNC207, plus EDAF2, EDAF3, EDBV3 ram machines. EDAC1 handles precision micro-feature work.
How to Sell Your Used Makino
Makino machines hold exceptional resale value thanks to the brand's reputation for precision, thermal stability, and decades-long service life. a51nx, a61nx, V33i, F5, U6 wire EDM, and MAG-series mills command particularly strong demand.
Resell CNC buys used Makino machines nationwide, every model and generation.
- Contact us with model, serial, and photos. Call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, no obligation.
- Accept the offer and we handle rigging, crating, and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Makino Machines
Are used Makino machines reliable?
Yes. Makino is widely regarded as one of the top precision machine tool builders in the world. Robust iron castings, roller-type linear guides, thermally stable spindles, and a Fanuc control partnership unbroken since 1958 give Makino machines a production life measured in decades.
What CNC control does Makino use?
Makino controls are Fanuc-based with Makino HMI: Professional 3, 5, and 6 on a-series and V-series, plus the current Hyper-i. Legacy models may show a Fanuc 16i, 18i, 30i, 31i, or 32i base.
What should I inspect before buying a used Makino?
Check spindle runout and bearing noise, cycle ATC and APC through full range, verify all axes for smooth travel and ballscrew backlash, confirm control health and optional software, and on EDM machines verify dielectric and wire path function.
What Makino models hold their value best?
a51nx and a61nx HMCs, F5 and T1 5-axis VMCs, V33i die & mold, U6 wire EDM, MMC2 pallet systems, and MAG-series aerospace mills all hold strong resale values. Call (844) 478-8181 for valuations.
Is Makino still in business and independent?
Yes. Makino Milling Machine Co., Ltd. is a publicly traded, independent Japanese company (TSE 6135), headquartered in Tokyo with North American operations in Mason, Ohio.
Can I still get parts for older Makino machines?
Yes. Makino North America in Mason, Ohio supports parts, service, retrofits, and preventive maintenance across the full installed base, including legacy a-series, V-series, SNC, MCC, and EDM platforms.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Makino?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Makino?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every Makino machining center, 5-axis, graphite mill, and EDM nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.