Q:

Why do I have to use a wrench twice when I want to remove a router bit? The wrench seems to loosen the nut on the collet, but after a couple of turns by hand, I have to use the wrench again to release the bit.

David Creitz, Kennesaw, GA

A:

Most router collets are designed with a slight taper that won’t self-release. Once tightened, the collet won’t come loose without being pulled. When you loosen the collet nut and continue to turn it, you bring the nut up against a rim or a snap-on circlip on the top of the collet. You have to use the wrench a second time so that the nut applies enough force to lift the collet out of its socket.

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