Kreg - PRS 1040 Router Table--Trade Show Package (Rating: 4)

At the woodworking show in NJ a couple weeks ago I bought the show promo kit which included the large table, steel stand, fence, micro adjuster, caster, switch, two feather-boards, and a flip-stop. It totaled $593.85. It was back-ordered when they sold to me, but they actually got it to me much faster then they had hoped (which was a nice surprise).

Finally had a chance to start putting it together, so wanted to post some feedback, for anyone who is interested in possibly getting one. Right off the back everything was packed properly, the boxes came in good condition, and all together. The finish on ALL the parts is very high quality…it LOOKS and feels like it was well made. The instructions are very easy to follow, and the parts all fit together well.

The table top has predrilled holes to attach it to the stand, which made putting them together brainless. All told, unpacking and assembly of the stand, casters, table top and insert took about 1.75 hours. Most of that time was spent drilling the phenolic insert plate for my router (took my time with that). It is nice having only the holes necessary for MY router, giving a smooth surface for routing and a nicer look. With the included template and easy to follow instructions, the process is relatively easy, and helps to improve the final product.

Assembling the fence took about an hour moving at a very casual pace. The fit and finish is high quality. The joining feature is a great idea. It utilizes two plastic rails that get inserted behind the out feed side of the fence, pushing it out 1/16 or 1/32. It seems like a well thought out, sturdy way of achieving this idea.

I have a few criticisms and hit a few snags.
1)Before attaching the dust port I noticed that there is no gasket between the plastic port and the aluminum fence which will definitely allow dust to escape. An accessory groove also goes through this area leaving about 3/16" square wide open. To remedy this, I used a self adhesive foam gasket (from H. Depot), that I had on hand to seal it. Took 30 seconds, and was easy.

2) Squaring the fence to the miter slot was not easily achieved. There is 4 screws that hold the fence onto the t-square bracket on the fence, which made it difficult to get right. I was able to get it within 1/32nd across the whole length, and settled for that. This can be easily remedied during use, but squaring up after set-up then tightening the hand screw (which is necessary anyways). I dont see it being a problem either way, as many bits use bearings, and the fence is not as critical as on a table saw.

3) AFTER drilling the insert plate for my router, I noticed that the hole for the bit was not large enough to receive the inserts that came into it. This was an obvious factory error, so I called Kreg. This is what has impressed me the most so far with this purchase. I called the costumer service number from the website, and A REAL HUMAN answered. She passed me off to the right department which picked up immediately. Then, as if I was in another dimension, the guy was familiar with the parts in question, (even a small Nylon snap rivet that was damaged), without looking it up!? He took my information, and is sending everything out to me! The whole phone call took less than five minutes!

Overall I am very happy with my purchase SO FAR! I would have given them 5 stars if the parts were all correct and the fence adjustment was a little more solid. Though it was not perfect on delivery, they quickly responded to my issues, politely and helpfully.

Will post more as I get to use it.