Thread: misaligned router base

Originally Posted by sussertown

By accident I found that my router bit leaned almost to the edge of a brass bushing placed in the sub base. When I placed the same sub base and bushing in the plunge base it was also misaligned though not as much. A carpenter suggested I try a different bit. I got a larger straight bit and then measured. the right edge is 3 mm to the edge and left edge is 2 mm to the edge. Viewing by eye, the larger straight bit and bushing seem not as far off as the narrower one, but this may be insignificant. I don't know. I am using 1/2 inch shanks and a Freud router. Should I be concerned?

Generally the router base should be fitted using a guide rod in the router collet that has the exact I.D. of the template guide on one end and is 1/2" or 1/4" on the other. The guide bush is screwed into the base, the base screws are loosened and the guide fitted over the rod in the router, when all is aligned the router base is then securely tightened.

It's amazing how many router leave the factory misaligned. Accuracy with templates is impossible unless the base is centred on the shaft.

I hope that this helps?

Regards

Grahame

Freud called me. The base plate they sent came with slightly enlarged screw holes that I did not notice. Also, they changed the screws and the new ones are flat. I didn't know that either. I thought they sent the same screws. Now the base began to adjust a little. Then I noted that the holed for the above the table adjustment was blocking much of the adjustment possibilities. I enlarged the hole and now I am able to center the bit. thanks.