Ask the Expert
IF YOU HAVE A PRODUCT RELATED QUESTION, PLEASE USE OUR CONTACT US FORM FOR AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. THIS SECTION IS RESERVED FOR GENERAL WOODWORKING RELATED QUESTIONS.
Michael Van Pelt is the founder of American Sycamore Woodworker’s Retreat. He has a reputation as the tool guru. Mike has been in woodworking for over thirty years. His knowledge of tools comes from his many years of intertwining experience in the woodworking industry. Mike’s experiences include being active as an Industrial Arts Teacher, professional instructor of power machinery and tool techniques, tool sales, management and owner of woodworking tool retail store, Delta Machinery representative and technical advisory.
If you have a question for Michael, choose the Submit Question button to the right by November 30th. We will send you a reply with Mike's response in mid-December and then post it to this page for other members to view. You never know...someone else may have the same question
IF YOU HAVE A PRODUCT RELATED QUESTION, PLEASE USE OUR CONTACT US FORM FOR AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. THIS SECTION IS RESERVED FOR GENERAL WOODWORKING RELATED QUESTIONS.
Listed below are questions and answers that have already been submitted.
Questions
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9/20/2009
Router Jig
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I have an older Kitchen with hinges on the outside of the doors. I would like to install the newr European (Hidden) hinges. Is there a Jig that I can purchase to use on my Router so that it will cut the holes in the same spot on each door? |
| A. |
Visit or go on line to Rockler. They make an excellent drilling jig that you use with a drill that works great. They also sell the needed drill bit and hinges that you will need. |
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4/16/2009
Router Lift Needed?
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I just got a 892 porter cable router and I want to put it in a table. Do I really need a lift? If so which one do I need? Are these lifts worth all of the money. |
| A. |
No you do not need a lift unless you want to spend serious dollars. This router comes with a very good lock and lift system already. I like it as is and use it every week. |
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4/16/2009
Pointers on Using a Router
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I have used most other types of woodworking equipment but not a router. I bought one and need some pointers or a video on how to get started using it. Can you direct me to a video - nothing came with my Porter-Cable router. It is a table router. |
| A. |
I highly recommend logging on to The Router Workshop by Rick and Bob R. on thewoodworkingchannel.com for many excellent demos. Plus you should take hands on classes. Woodcraft stores have excellent classes. Also join a local woodworking club and ask about instructions from a mentor. It is a wonderful way to build safe skills. |
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4/16/2009
Router Speed Setting
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I have a Porter Cable 3 1/4 router (7518) and am going to be making raised panel doors with a freud set on my router table. I'm new to the operation. What speed should I use for the large door bit? |
| A. |
I have the same router and I run the raised panel bit at 13,000rpms. If you
have a heavy duty table and a good balanced bit you might want to try 16,000:
The higher the speed the smoother the cut. I suggest that you remove 98% of the
material at the lower speed range and up the speed for the last light cut. |
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4/16/2009
Router Guides
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I recently purchased a PC router(dual base)and I bought a templet guide kit too. I've never used guides before. Could you give a tutorial on using router guides? |
A.
|
A template guide is a way of guiding or telling the router bit where to go ,so
to speak. The template guide guides your bit and keeps the bit from cutting
into your jig or fixture. The two most common sizes needed for most dovetail
jigs are 7/16 and 5/8. One way to look at a template guide is to think of it as
the “bearing” on a bit. It is guiding the bit into the correct direction and
path. |
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4/16/2009
Router Book
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I have inherited a nice router with a lot of different blades. I need a book of instructions, operation and maintenance. Can you recommend one, and tell me where I can purchase it. |
| A. |
Carol
Reed, AKA the Router Lady has written an excellent book. This book is well
illustrated and written very well in an understandable language. Any good book
store, Rockler, or Woodcraft should carry this book. |
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4/14/2009
Trimming w/o Showing Marks
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
Best way to use 7301 model for trimming the edge of laminate without marks on laminate? |
| A. |
I suggest that you wax the bottom of your router with a good quality general
purpose wax or a product such as TopCote. Be sure to use a good quality router
bit and keep the router moving. |
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4/14/2009
Router Bits
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I have a Bench Dog router table and no lift. The Craftsman Pro router does height adjustments from the top of the table. When setting the height of 1/2 round or 1/4 round bits, getting the correct height is very time-consuming. I set, test cut, adjust and repeat numerous times before achieving that perfect setting. It seems that there is a relationship between the 3/4" material and how far up the guide bearing is above the table for that perfection. Can you advise me on techniques/short-cuts for this set-up?? |
| A. |
I keep a
sample chain of 6 inch pieces at my router table with all the previous profiles
I have made on the router table. When I want to set up a 3/8 round over, I just
use a sample piece to set the bit correctly with no fuss. I also have the bench
dog router table with a PC 7518 3 ¼ hp router with the lift. Perhaps if you are
a good boy and you drop enough hints to family and friends Santa might just
bring you one. It will spoil you! Thanks and Happy woodworking! |
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4/14/2009
Router Bit
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I want to make a cutting board. I would like to make a rounded trough around the outside,1/2" from the edges. Do you have a suggestion on a router bit to use for this? |
| A. |
I would recommend a 3/8 round nose also called a core box bit. I know that
Whiteside offers a bit with a shaft mounted guide bearing making it easy to
follow a pattern. Using this bit I would double stick tape a piece of (cut to
the correct size) ½” plywood over my cutting board and follow the edge of the
plywood guiding the cut. |
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4/14/2009
Router Run Out
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
What do you find as normal run out on routers? I have measured .003 on most of my routers. The only one that was 0 was festool 1400 EQ. |
| A. |
I own over 50 routers and it has been said about me: “What Mike doesn’t know
about routers and using a router….one could stick it in your eye….and it would
not hurt” I do not care how much run out a router has (only if it is enough to
cause a problem). I could feel this. I would return the router or just reach
for another one. This is woodworking. I am not building a working heart or
space shuttle. What would possess someone to even check the run out and what
difference could it possibly make? I am a wood worker; I build things out of
wood. I love building furniture and not to brag but I am finally starting to
get good at it. Stop worrying about router run out and get out in your shop and
build something. Woodworking is supposed to be fun! Now I do not want you to
think I do not care or that I am being smart. I do care about precision and I
work wood as close as I can and I use a dial caliper and try my best at exact
measurements and precision joinery but do not let this excessive tolerances
drive you crazy. It is just not necessary. |
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3/26/2009
Router Match
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I am considering purchasing the 4216 Dovetail Jig and I was wondering which PC router you would suggest? |
| A. |
My
favorite router for cutting dovetails is the d handle model 691. I like the
control and balance of this unit and having the switch in my hand to turn the
router off & on is very convenient. |
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3/26/2009
Plunge Router
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
Can you successfully use a plunge rouret in a fixed situation like on a router table? |
| A. |
Yes you
can mount a plunge router upside down in a table; however I do not recommend
it. They are hard to adjust and will freeze up after a time. Many people do it
for it is a cheap way to get that much horsepower. I have a Porter-Cable 3 ¼ hp
fixed base router mounted in a Bench dog lift. I believe that this is the best
way to go. |
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3/26/2009
Router Choice
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I want to buy an Omni dovetail jig and was wondering what the best choice in routers would be. What size and features should I look for. Plunge or fixed? |
| A. |
My
favorite is the fixed base d-handle Porter-Cable 691 router. I like the control
of having the trigger in my hand and the balance and ease of use of the 691. |
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10/14/2008
Router Bit Drift
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
Do you have any tips for tightening the chuck of a router for preventing drift? I'm trying to cut a sliding dovetail joint in maple stock and can't seem to get the chuck adequately tightened to prevent the bit from drifting? Using 3/8" dove tail, 3/4 maple, and PC 690 router. |
| A. |
If what you mean by drift, is the router bit moves up or down in the collect nut, that means you have over tightened the collect nut and it has caused the nut to go out of round. You will have to replace the collet nut. When installing the bit, tighten the nut by hand first, then only slightly tighten with the wrench. Because of the direction the router bit spins, it is always keeping the bit tight. |
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8/26/2008
Making a Template
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I HAVE TRIED SEVERAL TIMES TO MAKE A TEMPLATE FOR A 6X6 CERAMIC TILE, WHEN I USE MY ROUTER IT SEEMS THAT MY CUT OUT FOR THE TILE IS EITHER TO LARGE OR WHEN I TRY TO CLEAN OUT THE SPACE ABOUT 1/4" DEEP ITS LARGER THAN THE BASE OF MR ROUTER. HOW CAN MAKING THE RIGHT TEMPLATE TO CUT-OUT THE SQUARE AREA AND DEPTH THAT I NEED TO FIT MY CERAMIC TILE? |
| A. |
Great question! Let me try and explain this. First off
remove your plastic base plate from the bottom of your router and replace it
with a piece of 8” wide x 18” long 3/8 hard clear plastic. Mount your router in
the center of this piece. This will allow you to work the router across your
jig without tipping in. You will need to make yourself a jig or fixture to
control where the router goes. It will look like a large rectangle. Layout the
6 “x 6” cut and moving your router to the far sides and
both top and bottom nail down some stop blocks to control the cut. Now work the
router back & fourth and top & bottom using a wide router bit to remove
the waste.. I hope I have explained myself well enough. You are welcome to
email me direct.
|
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8/26/2008
Router Selection
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
What make and model router would you recommend? I would like to a combo package. a plunge and fixed base kit. |
| A. |
I suggest that you visit your local Porter Cable distributor and get a feel of
the different choices you have. If you are looking for a plunge router and a
regular base you might consider the PC 694VK 1 ¾ horse power. If you are doing
heavy routing and want more horse power the model 893PK delivers 2 ¼ horse
power. If you are interested in dust collection on a router take a look at the
model 894PK. If you want to mount your router into a table you will want to
consider the model 895PK with above the table adjustment. Good luck and happy
router buying! |
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8/26/2008
Router Classes
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
Hi Mike, I received the PC693PK router kit as a gift. I am not used to using a router and could use some advise as to what I need to do to learn how to use it safely and properly. Can you please recommend a book or online site that show me the proper way to use the router. |
| A. |
Take a class at your local tool store or a nearby Rockler or Wood Craft. You
might check to see if there is a local woodworking club. Many clubs have a
mentor program. Most club members would be glad to help someone get started
into the great hobby of woodworking. There are several good books on Routers.
Carol Reed, The Router Lady, has a great book. I own over 40 routers here at
the school. I have a sickness for routers. I am a dues paying member of the
routers anonymous club. I also offer hands on router classes here at my school. |
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8/26/2008
Lock Miter Router Bit
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I HAVE A 45º LOCK MITER BIT PORTER CABLE 43503PC MODEL, BUT I DON`T KNOW ANY ABOUT THE MATERIAL SIZE MUST I USE WITH IT. COULD YOU SEND INFORMATION PLEASE? |
| A. |
I did a quick Google on “How to use a lock miter router bit” and found plenty
good instruction on using a lock miter bit. The PC 43503 bit will do up to 1
1/8” material. The lock miter bit is sometimes very difficult to get set up but
once set up will produce flawless joinery. Strictly a router table bit. Good
luck! |
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6/27/2008
Router Speeds
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
What speed settings do you recommend for routing different types of wood, I use pine poplar ,birch . plywood and will try pak spme cheery for projects, please identify settings for wood routing. |
| A. |
This is going to sound unprofessional but with 1"diameter cutters and smaller I always start at the highest setting then slow things down to get burn free cuts. The feed rate of the material into the cutter (and vise versa) also determines how smooth the cut will turn out. Plus high quality router bits can be run faster because of dynamic balancing and better manufacturing. The best thing is to do test cuts first and adjust your variables to produce the best cut. |
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6/24/2008
Drawer Lock Joint Bits
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I'm having a rough time getting the lock joints to line up properly. I took a router fundamentals class at the local woodcraft store and the instructor was unable to get them to line up properly. What's the secret? |
| A. |
They can be a challenge to line up at times. A fast and inexpensive why is to purchase a set-up block from Rockler Hardware. This is not a bad idea considering this is not a joint frequently used, so when its finally time to do it again, I can't remember how I did it last line. Think about it. Mike |
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6/24/2008
Inlay
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
Since I have just purchased a new plunge router, I would like information as to what router bits and guides should be used for making inlays. Also any 'tips' for mastering the art. Thanking you in advance..... |
| A. |
There is a great book that is a comprehensive guide to using routers, that I think would help you greatly. There may be areas you already know, but it covers everything from soup to nuts in router use. The soft covered book is called " ROUTER TECHNIQUES" by Philip Schmidt through CREATIVE Publishing. They also have a chapter on template routing that would cover you concerns. Try it. You will like it. Mike |
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6/24/2008
Raised Panel Door Bits
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I bought a set of raised panel door router bits. The bit for the panel is huge. To be safe. Will I need a router with speed control or make smaller passes? I have a bench top Delta shaper/router. It's one speed only. I have heard bigger the bit slower the speed. |
| A. |
BOTH. Raised panels should be made in multiple passes for safety and easy of making the cut. Raised panel bits should be spinning around 10,000 rpms. The rail and stile bits should be run around 14,000 rpms. Mike |
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6/24/2008
Using a Router
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I have just purchased a used router from a sale. I have watched other folks use them but I am having problems with burnt wood or not being able to stay in lines I want to rout. Any advise you can give me will be very much appreciated. I am an old beginner. |
| A. |
There is a great book that is a comprehensive guide to using routers, that I think would help you greatly. There may be areas you already know, but it covers everything from soup to nuts in router use. The soft covered book is called " ROUTER TECHNIQUES" by Philip Schmidt through CREATIVE Publishing. Try it. You will like it. Mike |
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6/24/2008
Which Router is the one to buy?
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I'm looking for a GOOD router that is built for mounting up-side-down in a router table! It will stay fixed to a router table. Seem that a lot of use with other routers, the bearings burn up too when running a lot fixed to a router table. Can you guide me in the right direction on which router should last a long time using on a router table? |
| A. |
You want to buy a fixed based router for you table. A 1 3/4 Hp ( Model 690LRVS) or a 2 1/4 Hp (Model 892)will do the job just fine. It has to have variable speed to accommodate the different size profiles used. Consider purchasing an additional base for the router, and then you only have to dedicate a base to the router table and not a router. The same motor can be used for all of your above table top routing, and bring the motor to the table only when you need to. Mike |
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6/20/2008
Edge Trim Plywood
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
Can I use my 892 to edge trim plywood. I have used routers on a lot of different materials many years ago while working with a friend but don't remember using on plywood. I am just starting out and do not have a table saw. I want to cut the plywood oversized with my PC circ saw and route a straight clean edge. I just bought the router a few days ago, very nice tool. I bought my circ saw about 8-9 years ago and love it. My next purchase will be your tabletop saw. Thanks for your help and quality tools. |
| A. |
Depending on the type of plywood you are using, you may not have great success. Standard plywood has voids between the layers, that when you try to route it, may not give you a clean cut. Try getting a good quality plywood blade for your circ saw, and use a straight edge when cutting might work better. Good luck. Mike |
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6/20/2008
Router Bit Sizes
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
Hi Mike Found your website and want to say thanks for all the comments to all the woodworkers. Just great to read each of the questions and answers you provided them. I have a question how do I know what bit size to buy for edge routing wood such as shelves and frames. The wood I want to use is 1/2 and 1 inch stock. How do I know how to measure a router bit before I buy it? I hope you can give me some guidance on this. Thank you very much again for sharing your knowledge and the website. |
| A. |
Here is a web site that will explain in detail how to size a router bit and the proper speed to set your router at. http://www.woodweb.com/knowledge_base/Router_Bits_101.html . This should help get you started. Good luck. Mike
|
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5/7/2008
Choosing a Router
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I have never used a router, but I think it would be helpful in installing door slabs in existing jambs to rout out for the hinges, and door catches. Also, we do a lot of jamb repairs because people kick in doors. I want to install a block and then rout it to match the existing jamb. Also, I am told we should get a router that will accept the Porter Cable guide bushings, and that will work with the Sears Butt Hinge Templates. Am I better off with a plunge router or a fixed base router? |
| A. |
A plunge router would work well for routing door hinges and even lock mounting. I suggest that you visit your local Porter-Cable dealer and even find a Woodcraft or Rockler store that offers router classes. If you are doing a lot of door work I also suggest that you look into the Porter-Cable Hinge butt template Kit. |
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5/7/2008
Spiral Router Bit
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I am planning to buy some spiral router bits to be used mainly in table mounted router. I like to know what is the proper type bit, upcut or down cut spiral bit? |
| A. |
You will want to use an up cut in your router table. The up cut will help pull the chips down and out the hole. An up cut bits pulls the debris up out of the hole. Above the table in regular router use, say cutting a mortise with a plunge router the up cut will pull the chips or waste out of the cut. A down cut would only throw the trash down in the hole and clog up the cut. I have found very little use for down cuts. They are mainly used in production where lifting of the top layer is a problem. |
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2/25/2008
7518 Table Mount?
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I want to purchase a 7518, or 7519 for my table.
Presently I have an older model PC router mounted with the Rockler lift. For
above the table bit changes, I also use a table mounted speed control for my routers.
My question is have you ever heard of a way, or a product that will allow me to
use the speed changer, or if there is a product I can purchase that will
accomplish this? It would be really inconvenient to go under the table to
change speeds all the time. I really want the 7518 for the heavy duty
performance. Can you please advise me? |
| A. |
Changing speeds on the 7518 is no big deal. I change speeds so rarely that in my opinion
it is not a concern. The only time I
change speed is on a raised panel cutter.
I believe that you can not buy a better router than the 7518 to turn
upside down in a router table. |
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2/25/2008
Universal Router
Answer provided by Marc Adams
| Q. |
I
have a question about selecting a router or router set that will accomplish
almost all routing tasks and accept all size collets with bits. I currently
have two routers that are very old and don't have the capability of using all
collet sizes for all kinds of router bit sizes. I would like a router that can
also function as a plunge router. Can you recommend any Porter-Cable router or
set that would accomplish these tasks? My price range is limited to about
$300.00. |
| A. |
There are some features I find important in a router such
as Soft Start and Variable Speed. Porter-Cable has the 893,894 and 895 models
that cover my concerns and are both regular and plunge base routers. |
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2/25/2008
Routing Rounded Corners
Answer provided by Marc Adams
| Q. |
I
am making a solid cherry coffee table. I
wanted the corners rounded instead of squared.
I wanted to 3/4 round bead on the edge.
My corners were a disaster. I
ended up with two desimilar shape corner.
I secured the 48 X 30 table tightly down. How do you make perfectly rounded corners? |
| A. |
Anytime that you want to duplicate a size or shape, one
good way to do it is with templates and pattern cutting or flush trimming
router bits. By making a pattern of the curved corner for your table, clamping
or two side taping with indoor/outdoor carpet tape and using a router bit for
flush trimming with a bearing to ride against the pattern you can repeat the
shape or size you want exactly over and over again. For the best results draw
out your pattern and rough cut to within a 1/16” before attaching the pattern
for routing. |
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2/19/2008
Advantages of Plunge Router
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
What is the advantage of a plunger router? |
| A. |
Plunge routers are designed to do their best
work inside of the boards edge board. The plunges routers ability to adjust the
depth of cut while the router is running, makes
it the choice for functions such as dado and groove cutting, inlay (recess and insert) and multi-stage excavation with the turret stop. The
functions the router is not as good at
is edge work and under a router table, because of the springs that make it plunge. I hope that helps. |
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2/19/2008
Centering the Baseplate
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I have a Porter Cable dual base router. Can you
explain the process of centering the baseplate on the router so that the gap
between the bit and the guide bushing is concentric? |
| A. |
The most common method of centering the base
plate is by using a centering cone.
Centering cone can be purchased at Rockler Hardware or Woodcraft supply stores, or any store like theses and
they run about $10.00 or so. To center a baseplate
first install a ¼” template guide in the base plate and then loosen, don’t remove the 3 screws which hold the plate to
the base. Push the centering cone through
the template guide and into the ¼” collet nut. With pressure push the cone down until it dead ends into
the template guide and retighten the three base screws. Now the cone is in the middle of the template
guide, which is the middle of the
base plate, which is in the middle of the collet nut which is centered on the arbor of the motor. |
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2/19/2008
Routing Technique
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
In a one piece mdf or wood door, I have seen
rounded and square corners made with the routers. This is where the supposed
rail and stile meet. How can I make the square corner with a router? |
| A. |
The only way I know of to achieve a square
inside corner for a one piece door is to
route the desired profile and then chisel the inside corner square. |
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2/19/2008
Router Bits
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
I am new to routing and the question I have is "If
you use a router table can you remove the bit bushing so you can get more
clearance"? |
| A. |
If the router has a bearing on it, it should
stay on. I think what may help you being new
at this, is a book I recommend anybody just starting out. This book will take you from router basics to template routing.
The book is: ROUTER TECHNIQUES a Comprehensive Guide
to Using Routers, by Phillip Schmidt. |
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2/19/2008
Router for Cabinet Doors
Answer provided by Mike Heavey
| Q. |
What router should I buy that will enable me to
control the rpm's and use large diameter bits, up to 3 inches, for making
raised panels for cabinet doors? |
| A. |
If you are not planning to run a business with
this router, then a 2 ¼ hp fixed base router
is all you will need. They come with variable speed, soft start and electronic feed control.
If you buy one additional base for the router, mount the router base under your router table, then
when it time to use the router table just bring
motor with you to the table. Now you have one motor that does your entire above table top work as well as below. It’s
a tremendous saving. |
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2/19/2008
Plunge Router Use
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I
am about to purchase a router, and would like a plunge router. Could I use it
on a router table? |
| A. |
Yes you can use a plunge router mounted upside down and many people do.
Good luck and happy router hunting. |
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2/18/2008
Hardwoods
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I
cut a laminated butcher block maple back splash with a skill saw and now I want
to clean the cut edge. When I put it in
my router table it catches (binds) even on a minimal cut. I tried ¼” and ¾”
straight bits. Tried it at slow speed and high speed. Now I’m getting router
shy because I never know what is going to happen.
|
| A. |
The
speed should not play much of a part in the binding situation. Proper feed direct and the correct bit are
more important. I suggest that you use a
spiral ½” up cut two flute bit. This bit
is designed not to grab as much as a straight cutter. How are you guiding the router? A fence? |
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2/18/2008
Router for Frame to Finish
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I
was interested in buying a router and have never used one. What would you
suggest would be the right one for all applications as I am a frame to finish
carpenter? |
| A. |
I
suggest a 1 3/4hp Porter-Cable router kit.694 VK. This kit will give you a good basic router
that can be turned upside down in a router table and also gives you a plunge
base for joinery work. It is my humble
opinion that this is the best router kit available for the dollar. This unit would serve a carpenter very well. |
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2/18/2008
Router Inside Edge of Frame
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
How
do you router the inside edge of a frame with a 1/4" round bit? The guide
cannot follow the 90 degrees corner. Any way to go around it? |
| A. |
Do
you want to cut a rabbet for the picture and the glass? I would use a rabbeting bit with a bearing to
guide the cut. Most router bit
manufactures have a kit with a rabbet bit and a set of bearings to control the
width of cut, in your case a ¼” cut.
Good luck. |
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2/18/2008
Router Speed
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
How do you determine what speed to run your
router? |
| A. |
Large cutters such as raised panel bits are best
and safest ran at 10,000 to 12,000 rpm.
It has been my experience that most all other bits cut best at full
speed.
|
[ Back To Main ]
2/18/2008
Recommendation for Occasional Home Use Router
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q. |
I
am handy in woodworking, but I do not have a router and bits. What choices do
you recommend for occasional home use? |
| A. |
I have a sickness when it comes to routers….I own 27 routers and the
school has over fifty. My favorite
router is the Porter Cable 1 3/4hp D handle router. I like the control and having the switch
directly in my hand is very convenient for turning the router off &
on. You can buy a regular base for this
router and mount it in your table. This
way you are not tying up a router in the table all the time.
Buy the bits as you need them for the job at
hand. |
[ Back To Main ]
2/15/2008
Router Spindle Runout
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I've
been having problems with the finish of a router cut. I checked the spindle runout on my
Porter-Cable 7310 Laminate router and it was .002" TIR. I never checked
this then the router was new, so I don't know what the original amount of
runout was. What is the normal/acceptable amount of spindle runout (TIR) for a
Router? |
| A. |
All
routers will have a small degree of runout. This tolerance is within normal
parameters. Plus or minus 2 thou is something that I can accept in my work and
in my tools. |
[ Back To Main ]
2/14/2008
Best Router for in a Table
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I am looking for a router for a permanent installation in my router
table. I want one that is adjustable from above the table, and does not require
a router lift.
What do you recommend? |
| A. |
Hands
Down the 892 variable speed Porter Cable is my favorite. Why? Plenty of power,
beautifully designed, easy to adjust without expensive upgrades. Sometimes life
is good because there are simple solutions. This is one fine tool! |
[ Back To Main ]
2/14/2008
Dust Collection for Routers
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
Do
vacuum base (P-C model 893)or grip vac handle (Porter-Cable model 891) routers really work, and does the
vacuum attachment get in the way? |
| A. |
They
work as long as they are turned on when ever the router is used. If you forget
and start to route without good dust collection then the port clogs up with
shavings. So the rule is turn on the dust vac first then turn on the router.
The attachment does take some time to get use to. Still a nice addition! |
[ Back To Main ]
2/1/2008
Which Router?
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I
am a weekend woodworker and I built myself a router table. I would like your
input before I buy a router. I am looking for something around two HP. I would
like to have both 1/4 and 1/2 collets. Easy up and down adjustments while still
in the table. And also being able to change the bits while still in the table. |
| A. |
The
perfect router is the 892! Get the variable speed for larger bit applications.
The depth of cut adjustments for this router are exceptional! Enjoy! |
[ Back To Main ]
1/29/2008
Porter Cable Router 892
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I
am just starting to get into cabinet making. I purchased the 4212 dovetail jig
and the 892 router. Does the 892 route have a plate for the templet that came
with my dovetail jig? If not, which router do you recommend? |
| A. |
Just
buy a 690 base plate and put it on the 892. You will be able to use the
dovetail guide bushings with the 690 base. Dovetail away! This is a very simple
conversion! |
[ Back To Main ]
1/29/2008
Above table adjustment for Porter-Cable 7529
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
Quick question. I own a PC 7529 router that is table
mounted. I would like to modify it to
allow above the table height adjustments.
Is this possible? |
| A. |
There are various ways to buy after market accessories that
allow for both above and below table adjustments. I suggest that you will see
most of these at a major woodworking show.
I
have found that a simple crank knob mounted to the router is my favorite
approach. It still means below table height adjustment. Simple is better in my
book. |
[ Back To Main ]
1/29/2008
Router-Dovetail Base
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I just purchased the 892 router and the 4212
dovetail jig. Is there a special base for the 892 router for dovetails? |
| A. |
The standard 690 Porter Cable base plate accepts all Porter
Cable guide bushings. It is handy to buy one as a back up.
|
[ Back To Main ]
1/29/2008
Router with Edge Guide
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I have a PC 690 LR with plunge base and edge
guide. Assuming that I am looking straight down at the router from above and
the edge guide is against the 12 o'clock edge, when I plunge the rounter into
the wood to cut a dado, which direction do I move the router for the rotation
of the bit to keep the edge guide tight against the wood - from right to left
or left to right? I'm thinking right to left because of the clockwise rotation
of the bit, but I'm new to routers and want to make sure. Thanks for any tips
or input. |
| A. |
Feed the router from left to right for best
results. This way the bit rotation helps to keep the fence to the wood during
the cut. |
[ Back To Main ]
1/29/2008
690LRVS Router
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q. |
I have the 690LRVS Router and the 6931 Base also
both sub- bases are too small for a 1 1/4 Roundover bit.What do you recommend
to accomadate this Bit. |
| A. |
I recommend using a router table with a larger
router that has a bigger plate opening. Router tables are great additions to
any shop. Well worth the investment! |
[ Back To Main ]
8/6/2007
Router Help
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q: |
I once almost cut the end of my pinky on the router, it
actually tore my glove to up instead. So I am now quite scared of my
router. I have been working with wood for almost 8 years. I love to scroll saw
but sometimes to finish the piece I need to route it. Do you have any hints or
tips on how I can get over the fear but also use the router to round over
smaller (8" x 8" or smaller) pieces on the router with accurate cuts
without them, and me, being eaten by this machine? The safest way to
introduce the wood to the bit without it being thrown across the room?
(Weird question so if you can't answer it that's all right too!)
|
| A: |
Never wear gloves when using woodworking
equipment. You were lucky this
time. I do not want you to be afraid of
your router, I do want you to have a healthy bit of respect for any power
tool. I suggest that you use a table
router to gain some experience before you try free hand routing. Use the fence or a starting pin to guide your
work piece into the bit. Check proper
rotation and feed. Use push sticks and
pads. I will also suggest that you take a class and get some instruction. Do you have a Rockler or Wood Craft store in
your area? Perhaps you know someone that
could mentor you. |
[ Back To Main ]
8/6/2007
Plunge Router Question
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q: |
Call me a dummy, but I haven't used a plunge
router before and I don't understand how to set up the plunge base, e.g. the
depth indicator and depth rod to get the depths of cut I want. Can you
walk me through how to set up step by step for a series of cuts to
get to 5/16 inch total depth? I don't understand how to set the plunge
rod and indicator to first achieve a 2.5/16 cut and then the 5/16 cut. |
| A: |
When I want to cut a certain depth of cut with
my router I install the proper router bit and then plunge the bit all the way down till
the end of the bit is resting solidly on the wood. This is referred to as “0” now raise the
depth rod up the distance you want to plunge.
The distance between the stop rod and the stop torrent will indicate the
length of travel or the depth of cut.
Hope this helps. |
[ Back To Main ]
8/6/2007
Clock
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q: |
Was wondering
if you know of a router bit (or a way to cut gear teeth). I'm in the process of
making a wooden clock with all wooden gears. Trying to cut them on the band or
scroll saw takes forever. Thank you for your time.
|
| A: |
Wooden
clock with all the wooden gears, what a great project
Yes I do
know of a scource, please contact Wayne
at Woodline. www.woodline.com
They have the bits and the patterns for making geared clocks.
|
[ Back To Main ]
6/29/2007
What kind of router should I get?
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q: |
I have an inexpensive router that I purchased at
sears about 15 years ago. This model has a 1/4' shank and is good for
light work. I am looking to buy a good quality router with multi use in
mind. I have been looking at porter cable products of late. I would
like one that can handle heavy loads and could do plunge cuts. I have
seen combo units on some of the home improvement shows and would like some info
or guidance to help me in making a decission on what model I need to get, when
I am ready for the purchase. |
| A: |
I always recommend the 690 D handle Porter Cable
router. You just can’t beat it. Michael this is a life-time heirloom quality
tool that any friend will covet. So keep your eyes on it. |
[ Back To Main ]
6/5/2007
General Rule about Router Speeds
Answer provided by Scott Phillips
| Q: |
I'm fairly new with routers. Regarding rotation speed: Aside from using slow speeds for large-diameter bits, is there any other general rule about router speeds? Hardwood vs. soft? Deep cuts vs. shallow? |
| A: |
Today you know that the standard 22 to 23 thousand rpm routers now come with variable speed options. Generally I run all hand held routing operations at the highest speed. If burning happens I dial it down until the burning stops. All large cutters are used on the router table only. I normally do test cuts on the router table at 13 thousand rpm. If the cut is rough I can dial up the speed slightly. If I get excessive vibration I dial the speed down until it smoothes out. Deep cuts, like dovetails, are made at the highest speed setting at a slow and steady feed rate. The rule is light is right. So, when I can, I always make multiple light passes until I get to the finished profile. This is easy on the wood, the bit and the router. Remember the manual is you ultimate go by resource. |
