Thread: Suggestions for a router

I meant it would be used 99 to 100% for use as a router table.

KR

Originally Posted by Krittgers

I will have to look at the Triton problems because it may be hard to repair them in the USA.

The "problems" fall mainly into the category of "operator error" in that it's a unique router with features not found on any other machine. One of these features is the removable plunge spring, a task that takes <10 seconds, but for which some operators can't be bothered, or "know better" than to bother to remove it.

Leaving the plunge spring in whilst using the router inverted increases the load on the fine adjusting mechanism by a very large factor which - in turn - increases the likelihood of wear to the worm gear. This has been well documented on this forum and elsewhere, but still owners take no notice.

The build-up of dust - especially MDF dust - can be a problem if it compacts in the plunge spring cap when inverted, possibly preventing the router from being fully raised for bit-changing. The fantastically-complicated total cure for this is to leave the cap off - without the spring it's not needed for inverted use anyway!

Cleaning and general maintenance on the Triton routers is easier than any other plunge router I've ever seen. I've written comprehensive instructions for both the TRA 3¼HP and the MOF 2¼HP models, which are simple to follow and genuinely effective.

I make no apologies for using some generalisations, because the one post on "problems" does not change the fact that the routers are designed for table use (no upward-facing cooling slots when inverted) and are brilliant at what they do.

Ray

the one post on "problems" does not change the fact that the routers are designed for table use (no upward-facing cooling slots when inverted) and are brilliant at what they do.

I agree that the design is clever but there are more posts than one on the forum as a whole about problems with the implementation. A bit of time searching will reveal the weaknesses. Of course no machine is perfect and every buyer should do their research. The Tritons can be fixed if there are problems as Ray and others here have generously shown.

I've had the big Triton as well as the big Makita (non VS). The Triton was not in the same class as the Makita in terms of build quality by a long chalk, and M. supplied a simple screw on baffle to deal with falling dust.

I meant one post in this thread, Ern. You're right in saying that no machine is perfect. My point was that - due to the Tritons being substantially different from other routers - a thorough read of the manual would eliminate the majority of "self-inflicted" instances.

Ray

I have now seen the Triton (smaller one) in use. It is fantastic for table use. Eliminates the need for an expensive router lift and in the US is priced right. I don't know about the other problems but I would sure like to try one.

It is made in Australia?

Thanks

KR

Originally Posted by Krittgers

It is made in Australia?

No, it's a Taiwanese product, originally produced by DurQ Machinery Corporation.

Ray

Just like to thank rayintheuk for loading up the Triton 1/2 " router manual. I purchased a Triton Router a couple of years ago but have never used it and, after deciding today( having joining this forum yesterday) to set it up, realized I didn't have a manual and didn't know where to get one.
A quick look at this forum and presto, was able to download the manual in a couple of minutes.
Again, many thanks Ray !
Peter

Originally Posted by Krittgers

I am looking for a router to be used primarily for router table use. In the states we can get what seems like a lot of money for the router: A Triton 1400 W for just a little over 200 us., which seems like a very good value.

I know these are made in Australia so I assume many of you use Triton's. Are there major drawbacks?

Fine Woodworking, I think, gave it very high marks.

thanks

Kelly Rittgers

Hi Kelly

Firstly the Tritons aren't made here in Oz but in China or Taiwan.

In the US you have a wide range of routers to choose from that are better suited to table use. Woodpeckers have the PC7518 in a motor only form to fit their lifts, this is a great alternative.

I agree with Ern, the Tritons reputation has suffered recently and given the choice available to you, would be a fair way down my list.

Regards

Grahame

Originally Posted by the finnsta

I purchased a Triton Router a couple of years ago but have never used it

And I thought I was the only person to do that. I bought one at least 2 years ago and haven never used it, It is still in its box, just never got around to making a router table suitable for it. Oh well, one day.

What Derek said - except I'd add that variable speed is useful if you are using big cutters. I use a TR12 Hitachi in my table. I just wish it had variable speed....

I brought the small triton for my triton router table and only lasted on hour. Not happy.

Hi all,

I recent times the Makita RF2301FC is the best buy with prices ranging from $425 through to $545 so shop around. A close second is the Hitachi M12V2 closer to the $500 area. We still hear horror stories about Triton, so to repeat myself, check out what the tradies use.... very few if any, will use Triton.

As stated previously, we don't sell routers, but talk to a hell of a lot of router users.

Regards

Grahame

Originally Posted by fdecaria

I brought the small triton for my triton router table and only lasted on hour. Not happy.

My friend bought a 52" TV last month which only lasted one hour too - he wasn't happy either! Nothing's perfect, I thought that point had been made. I understand your displeasure, but in what way did it fail?

Ray

Originally Posted by rayintheuk

My friend bought a 52" TV last month which only lasted one hour too - he wasn't happy either! Nothing's perfect, I thought that point had been made. I understand your displeasure, but in what way did it fail?

Ray

I was rebating a piece of 25mm mdf on the router table when I could see arcing around the carbon brush area and was starting and stopping. Removed carbon brushes and were in tact but had chipped areas. Decided to pull apart and give a good clean. All looks good inside. Will have to replace brushes but cannot locate someone who sells bits. Do you know someone? By the way, using the old brushes it still starts and stops, starts and stops.