On my Grizzly G0702 The tool height was limited by the height of the compound. I opted to skim about 0.06" from the bottom of the compound -- that was enough to allow setting tools on center.
Have you considered skewed helical gears? You might be able to make them easier than bevel gears. One option is to 3D print them - I've done that & they worked remarkably well. Check out otvinta's web site : http://www.otvinta.com/