Router lift or dedicated unit?

tuolumne | Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on January 8, 2007 08:27am

I am developing plans to build a router table. Up until now, I have been researching a lift to use in conjunction with my DeWalt 618 router. After doing some searches, it appears that many routers may be available that could be used on a table without an independent lift mechanism. Could I please have some recommendations. For the $250-300 I was prepared to spend on a lift, what can I get in a functional router that allows height adjustment and bit changes from above the table? Is micro-adjustment visible from the table top? Any pictures of successful setups? I have a preference for shop equipment that looks good…building furniture for our home is a hobby and should remain enjoyable. I find that I do sloppy work if things are thrown together, and I take my time when working with equipemnt, jigs etc. that feel like quality. Thanks.

Replies

JohnWW | Jan 08, 2007 09:41pm | #1
The current issue of Fine Woodworking has an article specifically about routers designed to be used in router tables. It's in issue 189, Feb. 2007.

John White, Shop Manager, Fine Woodworking Magazine
BG | Jan 08, 2007 09:58pm | #2
Tuolumne,

I built Norm's router table about 3 years ago and installed the DeWalt 621 with an adapter(about $20) for micro adjusting the height. I also bought a offset wrench from CMT that allowed me to change the bit above the table (about $17). While this setup worked fine, I've always wanted to get a bit more power in the router table for raised panels and free up the 621 from the router table for handheld use...swapping out from the table was a pain.

A couple of weeks ago I bought and installed the Triton 3 1/4 in the table....this router was designed for a table mount. It has both a macro and micro adjustment capabilities and locks in for bit replacement . It has dust collection and multiple speed built in. No additional adaptors are required.

Here's the good news: the price. Initially this unit was introduced at well over $300 a few years back. I bought mine thru Woodcraft...$214. I got it from the store so there was no shipping charge. I have it plugged into a power strip along with the vac...throw one switch and both go on. Good luck with your decision
lokiloki1 | Jan 09, 2007 02:54am | #3
For what it's worth I was just in your postiton last month, and after much thought, scrapped the whole table with lift idea. Instead I bought the horse and a half jet shaper. I realize it is more than twice(700$) what a lift would cost but the versatility may outweigh the cost increase. I just milled a bunch of door assemblies on it, and everytime I use it I am happy I spent the extra money. Good luck!
cadiddlehopper | Jan 09, 2007 05:06am | #4
Tuolumne -- like the meadow? Interesting!

I bought a router table top and fence so I could go right to work. I had a base for the top already. My router came with a lifting tool, but by mounting it at a certain angle, I don't need the lift. Reaching under the table is just too easy. I could still use the lift tool if I choose to do so. A router base remains under the top at all times. I have the Porter Cable 890 under a Bench Dog top. I bought the melamine top, but, if I could do it over, I would choose the cast iron unit. My choice of router had to do with a dovetailing system also. I ended up with 2 routers and 4 bases which gives me all the versatility I could ask for.

Cadiddlehopper