Recently I bought a DeWalt DCW600 compact router with the intent of cutting dovetail joints with the Rockler Dovetail jig I just bought. When setting this up I realized that I cannot do this with the base that came with the router. So my question is, what do I have to do to set this router up for its intended purpose?
Discussion Forum
Get It All!
UNLIMITED Membership is like taking a master class in woodworking for less than $10 a month.
Start Your Free TrialCategories
Discussion Forum
Digital Plans Library
Member exclusive! – Plans for everyone – from beginners to experts – right at your fingertips.
Highlights
-
Shape Your Skills
when you sign up for our emails
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. -
Shop Talk Live Podcast
-
Our favorite articles and videos
-
E-Learning Courses from Fine Woodworking
-
-
Replies
I have a Ridgid compact router and I think the original base would ride on the Porter Cable dovetail jig just fine. However, I might have to modify or make a new base to accommodate the guides that following the DT jig fingers. Is that your problem? If so, what you need to do depends on what type of guides came with your set. For materials to make a base, get some acrylic sheet. Beyond that we need more information.
Did your Rockler jig come with router bits. Are they 1/2" or 1/4" shaft? Your compact router will probably only take 1/4", right?
You may need to fit a base that takes the guide bushing, this is what I have on my Rigid palm router, I keep it on all the time since it makes it more stable : https://www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/tools/power-tool-accessories/router-accessories/110560-veritas-compact-router-base-plate?item=05J6602&utm_source=free_google_shopping&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=shopping_feed&srsltid=AfAwrE5veYbRVzAnY4RURXTpIlYfJW6xiaa7JQB5HSt47hW5CFfmbr_yeCQ
I'm also assuming you are saying the supplied base does not accept a guide bushing, yes? Any base plate that is milled for a standard PC bushing and that fits the router base should be fine. You will also need the appropriate bushing(s). I'm sure the jig documentation specifies the size(s) required.