Hi I am in the market for a new router table, router, and lift system. Any Suggestions? Does anyone know if it is easy to remove the router from the Jessem lift once it’s installed? Should I get the PC fixed/plunge base kit and use the same router for everything, or buy two seperate routers, fixed for the table and plunge for freehand work?
Thanks!
Replies
Take a look at the fairly new Porter Cable #890 router. Just mount the stock base under the table top and you'll have built in above the table height adjustment and one wrench above the table bit changes, and you'll be several hundred dollars ahead.
John W.
When I got my lift, I narrowed it down to the Jessum, and the PRL by woodpecker. They both handle certain brands easily, and others fitting with extra collars for a particular model. In the end, I liked the chain/metal setup .vs. the rubber band/acrylic. Just a personal choice. The PRL looked beefier, but they both have good reviews. I decided early that I would dedicate a router to the table. I went with the PC7518, because of size and reputation. I also have the 890 combo kit for free hand work. Don't regret the choice, but I think you would be happy with the Jessum as well. You can buy a table or build. I chose to build. It was fun, and met my needs. Good luck.
I would strongly suggest a dedicated router for the table. You do not want to be taking it out and putting it back in. I have the Jessem setup, and really like it. I think the fence is top notch. The only thing I don't like is the open base. The base is rock-solid, but open (noisy and dusty). I put the PC 7518 in there and haven't had any problems. I do think I am going to build a mobile cabinet and drop the top right on it (keeping the top part of the base intect and bolting it right to the cabinet). I also have the PC 690 combo kit. Actually, I am thinking of getting another free-hand router so that I can have a different dedicated base plate. I am big on time...as in I don't have a lot of it. If I had to be switching my router from table to free-hand everytime I was able to sneak downstairs into the shop, there would go half the time I get to be down there. Of course, I have a two year old and a four month old. But in any case, I think fifteen minutes multiplied by whatever really starts to add up and make a dedicated router seem much less expensive. Plus, I think the wear and tear of putting a router back in and taking it out has to have some detrimental effect over time to all the parts involved.
Hi there:
I LOVE my Jessem lift and Porter Cable let up. The system works really well. Interestingly enough, I bought the first lift and table and the PC 5728 would not fit. Thought I was crazy but it turned out to be a manufacturing problem with the lift bracket. It was resolved in about 2 hours and I am very happy.
I agree about not taking the router in and out . . . . I like having a big router in the table and a smaller unit for hand use anyways.
I also agree with the comments regarding the open base for the Jessem table . . . it is my only objection. I have since built a box insert for the table that encloses the unit, gives some storage and adds to the dust collection. My ears are thankful. I might someday put it into a bigger unit but the current table is on castors and I can move it around the shop - closer to other tables for working with longer or more awkward material.
M2C
Mark
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