Well if it machines not too bad then I will use that for next project. I did look into McMaster and the different tool steels, easy to machine.
Like I said before I can't take the boom apart cuz of seized screws (without a lot more work). I was using the 6mm shaft for centering the part on the table. That way I could make sure both top n bottom were lined up.
And bushings, bushings, bushings. Also used them for a bit of spacer.
And made this up, some added support for end of stick where bucket connects. I do want to add weight to the machine but not to the arm, rather like joes idea of plate steel on frame. Somehow I'll bulk her up

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