New and overwhelmed.

Well, I thought about that option for some time.  My problem is, I don't have the budget (and can't get financing) for a cnc router at this time.  I don't have much extra time either,  but I have even less extra money. Lol.  

My thoughts on using this machine are as follows.  
1. I already have it.  My dad bought this on a whim 6ish years ago thinking i could do something with it, and brought it to my shop. ( I wasn't in business then, just working as a hobby)
2. It's stout.  It weighs right at 3000 pounds, so very sturdy.
3. it has x and y axis already, and they are working.
4. It already has a vacuum table and pump.
5.  The only work I have to do is modify the gantry, bolt on a z axis and spindle, and get the programming ready.  (Fully auto Atc functions, 4th axis lathe, etc will be added way down the line)

yes it would be easier and faster to just purchase a machine, but like I said I dont have the budget for that.  My budget for this machine is about $3000.  I dont think I could get a machine this large, stable,  already with a vac table for that.

I completely understand, but you might be surprised what you can find used for that price. Take this one on Ebay for example.
www.ebay.com/itm/256470069304
It is only priced at $2500 and looks like it has a tool changer. (Although the vacuum pump for part hold down would cost extra.)