I have a Porter Cable 7529 router, I love it but, using it in a table is not so good.
This is a plunge machine with a micro adjust; you can adjust for more depth by turning the adjuster, however, you have to release the plunge and replunge for the new setting to take affect. To reduce depth you first have to release the plunge, micro adjust then replunge. Powerful machine, it works great.
Here is my issue, depth adjustments while the router is hanging in a table is next to impossible because having to release the existing plunge to adjust will sent the motor flying, then replunging will push the mounting out of the table possibly throwing off the setup.
Anybody found a way to deal with this?
Replies
RonT,
With my Dewalt they make a handle that attaches to the plunge mechanism and allows you to use it in a table position easily. However, I've been watching the Router father and son team on http://www.thewoodworkingchannel.com and been very impressed with their router set up...a Hitachi, they just took out the springs...and lift it out of the table to set the depth...
BG,
I've seen the setup the router boys have in the Hitachi. But, they use the simplest of simple in a fence arrangement, may be something to be said about that, I want to be able to tweak another 1/32 without having to tear down the set up. I may be missing something in the use of the 7529 but, I know how to change depths in the upright position and it can't be done upsidedown in a table.
I believe I'll contact Porter Cable and get some advice from them.
Thanks for your input.
RonT
RonT
You may get replies from those who disagree, but it's my belief that a plunge router is not well suited for use in a table, unless the table has its own height adjustment mechanism, which it sounds as though yours does not. There are many fixed-based routers that would do the job for you and be much easier to adjust in your table. You may want to look at the 3 1/4 HP Porter Cable or the 3 1/2 HP Milwaukee. I know for sure that the Milwaukee comes with a long handled socket wrench designed for above-the-table height adjustment. The Porter Cable may also have this feature. Then your plunge router will always be at the ready for its intended task -- hand-held plunge routing.
There have been several other Knots posts regarding routers and tables. You may want to review some of them as well.
Edited 6/21/2006 12:53 pm ET by Mike_B
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