Router DOA

[pelligrini]

I have the DW618 three base kit too, and really like it. It replaced my old craftsman 1/4 fixed base. It won't bolt directly to the accessory table, but there are some easy fixes for that.

As other have said, get a 1/2" shank. The multi base options are good too. I also use my motor in a jessem router lift that goes into my saw extension.

[greenacres2]

Originally Posted by LCHIEN

Believe it or not its a frequently asked question about BT3s, "what router should I use with my BT3?"
and what router can i attach to the BT3

So at some point i summed up the wisdom i saw posted here on router selection.
and placed it in the document called BT3 Frequently asked questions.

I've read through the whole thing twice (and some other parts more!!) and didn't remember the router section being there. Great document--if he added about 15 pages of pictures it would be a book that could be published and sold. One of the best free things i've ever gotten.

earl

[LCHIEN]

Originally Posted by greenacres2

I've read through the whole thing twice (and some other parts more!!) and didn't remember the router section being there. Great document--if he added about 15 pages of pictures it would be a book that could be published and sold. One of the best free things i've ever gotten.

earl

Here's the whole FAQ section on Recommended routers (does not include the section on mounting different routers):

What router do you recommend?
Generally the Ryobi and Craftsman and Skil routers are considered beginner’s routers and do not have the features and quality of the more expensive routers below, but they are cheaper. Note the average number of routers owned by BT3Central survey respondents was 2.5 routers so it’s not uncommon to buy second and even third routers as you become more experienced.

The question often arises which router and these seem to be the top-quality forum favorites (in alphabetic order) with multiple interchangeable fixed and plunge bases, electronic variable speed and ½ and ¼”collets, and around 2 to 2.25 HP and priced around $180 to 250:
• Bosch 1617EVSPK 2.25 HP
• Dewalt DW618PKV
• Makita RF1101
• Porter Cable 893 and 895VSPK

The Ryobi RE1803BK with 3 bases seems to be a popular value-priced alternative router with features like those above for prices in the $90-120 range at Home Depot. Rod Kirby highly recommends the Triton router. The Porter Cable 690 series was the standard but even with its improvements, its basic design dates back 20 years or more, so, unless you get a great deal, get one of the newer models above.

The following are forum favorite top quality plunge-only models and may have higher power and weight (making them less suitable for hand-held work when desired) than the above mentioned:
• Hitachi M12V – 3 HP very big and powerful
• DeWalt DW621 and 625 (2 and 3 HP, respectively)
• Porter Cable 8529 2 HP

[BeauxTi]

thanks tuns for the info - I ordered the Bosh Kit - Home Depot 179.00. Seemed like lowest price around. They don't carry it in the store - had to go On Line. After everything I read - it had the functions i think I need and between you all and the Internet - look like a good choice - now waiting for it to arrive. Hardest part - esp in the middle of a project. Guess I will will have to go back to fishing for a while ;-)

[BeauxTi]

Router came in today - to late to do anything with it, but at least I am ready to contine the "Looking around the garage project". thanks for all the suggestions!