ROUTER TABLE

This is a rehab of the old router table I have had for over ten years. I started out putting new fronts on all of the drawers. Next I added a new top of 3/4 MDF to the existing MDF top. I cut out the drop in for the router plate that holds Triton 3 1/4 HP router. I was not able to center the router plate like I wanted because I was using recyled wood for the entire construction and there was a defect in the area where it could have been centered. It is what it is.

I then constucted a new router fence. This turned out to be alot of fun putting together and once placed on the table it was square, which I was very happy with, as I made the fence almost nine inches tall in the event that I needed to run a board vertical and the fence would give me the support that I would need. I added T-tracks to the table and the fence to guide the fence and also to add a feather board.

One of the pictures show where I had to use guides and spacers to ensure that the groove for the track was straight and exactly the right width. I used a one inch guide bushing and a 3/4 inch router bit. I used the calipers to monitor the depth of the dado as I went along and it came out exactly 3/8 inch deep and exactly 3/4 inch wide for the track. I used the spacers as a stop that was held in place with the face clamp and worked great. I will say that I ran a coat of Carnuba wax over the bottom of the router base, the guide boards and in the channel and this made it smooth going while I made the dado.

I have to mention that the Triton router is awesome. It has the variable speed that will help me work with small or large bits and the power is great. The T-track, knobs, and bolts were all purchased from Woodcraft supply and I couldn’t be happier with them once they were installed. You need to remember that all of the wood is what I had laying around the shop and was really a project of something to do and learn from for when I build the next table. Storage is sufficient and hold about fifty or so router bits, wrenches, caliper, guide bushings, compasses, and assorted other items that fall in the use of the router. The router cabinet is mobile with the use of one of the mobile bases I purchased from Home Depot for five dollars when they clearance them out. All in all I am pretty happy with the outcome even if it is not all new and pretty. I think I am going to finish off the fence with some polyurethane as I noticed my dirty finger prints over the fence as I have been using it.

-- Ed E. " Taking one board at a time "