Hi all
Let me explain quickly.
I need a new router lift for a router table with above table adjustment.
I have a Jess-um in one table now.
The inserts are falling apart and often don’t (even when new) have a perfect mate when inserted so stuff doesn’t catch. (yes, I can get replacements, but still doestn’t solve the catching problem).
I have a Bench Dog plate in another table and constantly must shim the insert to level it when I change to another.
I have another table with the router mounted directly underneath with only the bit poking thru to get a good fit and smooth operation, but need to reach underneath to adjust height and no inserts so can’t change bit sizes.
I looked at the Freud (cheap plastic inserts and a bad lip) Rousseau (no better) and the Rockler (also a bad fit on the rings).
I’m making fine jewelry boxes and need the accuracy for the joints.
Is the Woodpecker any better?
Or any advice on a lift with good inserts?
Or am I gonna end up with a different table for each bit with no inserts?
I’m gonna run out of shop space real quick with 3 or 4 tables.
Can anyone shed some light and help here?
Jeff
Replies
I have had the Woodpeckers lift for about 3 years with no problems. It is a solid lift and bits/collet are raised well above the table surface.
I got a piece of hex rod which I mount in my drill and it takes but a few seconds to run the router up and down. In addition, I purchased the Wdpcks undermount router enclosure. Hooked to my DC it eliminates 99% of the dust. A few chips do escape.
I run my outfit with a Jessem fence and miter slide. They are solid as a rock.
Jerry
If you get the Woodpecker QuickLift, you won't need that hex rod. You put in a special wrench and give it 1/4 turn, then lift the router all the way up for bit changing, or drop below the surface, all in a few seconds. Then you use the regular hex wrench for fine adjustment, like the older Woodpecker lifts.
This system is very, very fast to work with.
My rings are quite flat to the (aluminum) insert but I've not checked it to 1000ths, as I do furniture not boxes. There is no crown to the insert though.My goal is for my work to outlast me. Expect my joinery to get simpler as time goes by.
John
I like the Woodpecker.
But literature and ads are deceiving.
If you happen to look at yours and could throw a straight-edge on it, drop me a note.
Jeff
I guess I was a day late and a dollar short. Such is life.The determining factor for me was the fact that the PRL runs the chain around TWO screws. I had heard others complain about a one-screw lift 'cocking', getting stuck or hung up.Jerry
Sardog: Dittos to Jerrys comments. I have similar set up and no problems. One ring was a few thousands off center, they sent out a new one pronto. My top is also from JessEm, solid phenolic, dead flat. JessEm and Woodpeckers are both small companies with great personal service; a pleasure to do business with as far as my experience has been and that makes a difference to me.
Duke
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Duke and Jerry
I've been looking at the Woodpecker lifts.
If you get a chance in the shop, can you run a straight edge over them and see how well the insert rings mate with the plate.
Small variations throw my joints off, so a good mate with with no uneven-ness is important.
The problem for me is I often work with small parts that can't tolerate any variation.
Also, I need to mail-order everything here in Vermont, and have no way to look at an item before I buy it. Sometimes a royal pain.
Jeff
I have more than a few router tables.. I hear what you are saying.
Inserts are a bummer..
You can usually just sand the HIGH parts down but.. As in if your bit length allows for your work..
I just use a 'chunk' of tempered hardboard (1/8, 1/4 inch?..I forget what it is) fixed to table with flat head screws.. I have more than several layin' around with just the mounting holes drilled and countersunk.
When I need zero clearance .. Slap on a new one and run that bit UP!
Well, some bits you need to drill a hole somehow!
Will
That is a great idea.
Jeff
I have the PRL and love it. Back when I was making my decision, I looked at the PRL and the Jessem. In the end I went with the PRL. I just liked the chain drive instead of the rubber belt, and the metal plate. The Prl adjustment is very fine. I got the version with 1/32 adjustment. If I'm not mistaken, one full turn of the dial is .001. It does take a lot of cranks, but if you use a B&D electric screw driver it works fine. I also purchased the ring set. They sit very flush and I put a flat edge on mine with no issues at all. It is a very well made piece of hardware. I mated mine with the PC 7518. It has handled everything I have trown at it. If you have any questions just holler.
http://forums.taunton.com/tp-knots/messages?msg=20473.1
If you do decide you want one, get on their e-mail newsletter. They send out an e-mail every friday with internet specials.
I did add one other thing to mine. I bought the quick chuck for my 7518. It is nice. I only have to elevate it abouve the plate, and with one turn of a hex wrench it's free. One down side, it only is for 1/2" bits. Good luck on the decision
Edited 5/8/2006 12:45 am ET by bones
Bones
Thank you
That helps alot.
Jeff
No problem.
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