Thread: New Router Table

Originally Posted by johnc

Steve,

The router is a Makita 3612, but down the track I will rectify that by replacing it with the 3612C model for the variable speed. It is not a router lift as I could not think of a suitable justification for the cost, although I have to open the door and twiddle for height adjustment that is fine for the use it is put to. The twist plate that gives access to the bit is easy to remove, however an offset spanner would make it a little easier. The plate holes will only take Makita so the option of a Triton is not there. There is no switch at the moment, that will come once I get my act together and order one. Some earlier posts mentioned putting the switch at knee height and that is the most likely way I will go. I would have to say the table is a great improvement, although no dark sider it is mainly chisels, plane and hand saw, and this unit does make life a lot easier in the shed.

John

Thanks for that John,

Generally, I've found that the router bases can be re-drilled to accept , most other plunge routers.

I also agree that the cost of a lifter, at least a purchased one, would be hard to justify, but have you considered the eXtension from (what was) Woodpeckers?

Variable speed is an important aspect, particularly if you intend to use large(r) size edge trimming, panel raising or lock-mortice bits - their size alone
demands a somewhat slower speed than a wee little bit, unless you like excitement :eek:

Cheers and enjoy!

Auld,

I have looked at the Xstreme (sic) extension but not as longingly as the router lifters. So far I have not found the need for a bit of extra length on the bit, in the end the difference in thickness between the plate removed from the router and the thickness of the aluminium plate is not that much. I gather the loss is greater on the lifter units so I doubt there is all that much to gain from the purchase.

I'd agree on the variable speed there is plenty of excitement on the smaller bits when things go wrong, I have no intention of shoving a wide bit into the 3612 without a full body suit and kevlar helmet

John.

Nice looking table John

The bigger pic where worth the wait , just catching up in a few weeks missed post

hi John,

great job, now i'll be over on the weekend to pick it up ....

no really, I wish I could get around to doing what you have done.

Andrew