Thread: First Router Table

Will, I made exactly the same router table (from the plans that were published in the Australian Woodsmith last year), and like you, attached a 1400 watt Triton to it. It was my first router table and I thought I would add some of the upgrades right at the start. It worked well for a few months, but then it gradually developed a significant sag.

I think this was a result of two problems, both of which you can probably avoid. Firstly, I should not have put in the mitre track, which I discovered I didn't really need anyway. It weakened the table top.

Secondly, I think that the table top really needs more reinforcement than the plans indicate, particularly for a heavy router and if you used 12 mm (or 1/2 inch) ply. You should be able to retrofit some reinforcement without too much trouble. I would also suggest that you put a supporting arm on the right side of the table as well and always use both arms to support the top when lifting it.

Given the great job you seem to have done with the table, it would be a shame if you had to do what I did with mine, which was to ditch it.

Originally Posted by ronbrunton

Will, I made exactly the same router table (from the plans that were published in the Australian Woodsmith last year), and like you, attached a 1400 watt Triton to it. It was my first router table and I thought I would add some of the upgrades right at the start. It worked well for a few months, but then it gradually developed a significant sag.

I think this was a result of two problems, both of which you can probably avoid. Firstly, I should not have put in the mitre track, which I discovered I didn't really need anyway. It weakened the table top.

Secondly, I think that the table top really needs more reinforcement than the plans indicate, particularly for a heavy router and if you used 12 mm (or 1/2 inch) ply. You should be able to retrofit some reinforcement without too much trouble. I would also suggest that you put a supporting arm on the right side of the table as well and always use both arms to support the top when lifting it.

Given the great job you seem to have done with the table, it would be a shame if you had to do what I did with mine, which was to ditch it.

Thanks Ron. Yeah when I was making it & then finally attaching the router I had some passing thoughts whether the top would last a while I'll definitely check it out and see what I can do in the re-inforcement department now that I've heard your tale.

Cheers,

WILL

Guys, help please. Could you explain how to download these plans as it looks exactly like what I am looking for. I too have a small router but I am looking seriously at the Triton as my mate has one and swears it is the ducks nuts.
Thanks Stewie

Originally Posted by shaver59

Guys, help please. Could you explain how to download these plans as it looks exactly like what I am looking for. I too have a small router but I am looking seriously at the Triton as my mate has one and swears it is the ducks nuts.
Thanks Stewie

Mate PM me your emaill address and I'll send you the plans when I get home. They are in imperial though - hope your cool with that

Cheers,

WILL

Just a heads up, you can email directly. If you click on the usename at the left of screen the forum software can send an email to that person, thus bypassing the PM thing.

Good to know Damien has there always been that feature? or is that a new one with the upgrade?

Cheers,

WILL

I see what you mean but it doesn't work on yours
Stewie

Shaver & mac_man_luke, y'all have mail

Originally Posted by shaver59

I see what you mean but it doesn't work on yours
Stewie

Well spotted. I think I've fixed it now.