Fellow LJs,
I did some searching on this idea and didn't come up with anything, so thought I might ask. I have one of those Incra 28×21 table saw extension type router table tops, and my latest idea is to modify my outfeed table to become a larger size, offset style router table and mount a removable Incra LS17 fence system.
Anyhow , to maximize my resources I was thinking of building a top around the existing TS extension top I have.
My plan is to get a sheet of premium grade MDF, cut to size, double it up in thickness to get roughly 1.5". Then, make a template for the extension top, and rough out a hole with template guided router for the extension top, leaving a 3/8" offset. Then, rabbet out the 3/8" offset for the depth of the extension table, and then laminate the MDF with formica (maybe even the micro dot, if I can find it). Finally, flush trim the laminate around the recess.
Couple Q's…
1) Anyone do this before? Tips, advice welcome.
2) Is this a silly/pointless idea? If I am doing that much work, should I just go ahead and rout a hole for the router plate instead, rather than using the existing extension? I am assuming that perhaps the extension top I have will be flatter for better accuracy immediately surrounding the router bit, and that the size of the router plate hole will be more exact (plus it has built in leveling screws already). Maybe I am underestimating the degree of flatness to which I can make a full router table top.
Thanks all!
I did some searching on this idea and didn't come up with anything, so thought I might ask. I have one of those Incra 28×21 table saw extension type router table tops, and my latest idea is to modify my outfeed table to become a larger size, offset style router table and mount a removable Incra LS17 fence system.
Anyhow , to maximize my resources I was thinking of building a top around the existing TS extension top I have.
My plan is to get a sheet of premium grade MDF, cut to size, double it up in thickness to get roughly 1.5". Then, make a template for the extension top, and rough out a hole with template guided router for the extension top, leaving a 3/8" offset. Then, rabbet out the 3/8" offset for the depth of the extension table, and then laminate the MDF with formica (maybe even the micro dot, if I can find it). Finally, flush trim the laminate around the recess.
Couple Q's…
1) Anyone do this before? Tips, advice welcome.
2) Is this a silly/pointless idea? If I am doing that much work, should I just go ahead and rout a hole for the router plate instead, rather than using the existing extension? I am assuming that perhaps the extension top I have will be flatter for better accuracy immediately surrounding the router bit, and that the size of the router plate hole will be more exact (plus it has built in leveling screws already). Maybe I am underestimating the degree of flatness to which I can make a full router table top.
Thanks all!