Rr

"RB"

05/03/2004 8:04 PM

Router Questions

ok, before anyone tells me I'm using a poor tool...I know, I know.

Anyway, I'm trying to locate a user manual for a Craftsman router (model
17505) that was handed down to me.

Additionally, I'm embarrassed at how naive I am when it comes to using
routers. I'm pretty new to woodworking, but I've built some things that I
know a router would've come in handy for (octogon poker table, wine rack,
etc). Problem is, I don't even know how to load a bit let alone effectivly
use a router.

One other note, I've read some horror stories about mounting certain models
upside down for use in a table. Any issues with this particular model?
Should I look into the "router table accessory" for my 10" Craftsman table
saw (Craftsman...I know, I know)?

Thanks everyone for your advice.



This topic has 3 replies

EP

"Edwin Pawlowski"

in reply to "RB" on 05/03/2004 8:04 PM

06/03/2004 1:18 AM


"RB" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> Additionally, I'm embarrassed at how naive I am when it comes to using
> routers. I'm pretty new to woodworking, but I've built some things that I
> know a router would've come in handy for (octogon poker table, wine rack,
> etc). Problem is, I don't even know how to load a bit let alone
effectivly
> use a router.

visit www.patwarner.com for some idea of what can be done. Buy a book with
basics. Don't touch the wood until you know how to hold it and what
direction to go in. Bits spinning 20k+ rpm can do some damage.

A collet holds the bit in place. I have no idea what model you have so I
can't give much infomation. The collet nut has to be loosened, bit
inserted, then nut tightened. Some routers need two wrenches for the
operation, others have a stop on the tool to hold the shaft in place.

First bit to buy is a roundover. It makes a nice rounded edge on anything
you do. It has a guide bearing and makes it easy to use. If the wood is in
front of you and you are routing t he front edge, move from left to right.
Be sure hte work piece is secure and won't fly at you.


>
> One other note, I've read some horror stories about mounting certain
models
> upside down for use in a table. Any issues with this particular model?

I don't know.


> Should I look into the "router table accessory" for my 10" Craftsman table
> saw (Craftsman...I know, I know)?

May be OK. You can buy or build a table if you have the space for it. IMO,
a separate table is much easier to use as you never have to knock down a
setup because you want to cut a board on the saw. Dust collection is an
issue also. Shop Van can do wonders mounted into the router fence.

Too much to tell you in a single post. Routers can be fun to use. Take the
time to learn the proper way and you have a tool for many operations.
Ed
[email protected]
http://pages.cthome.net/edhome

DD

"Don Dando"

in reply to "RB" on 05/03/2004 8:04 PM

06/03/2004 3:23 AM

There are several books and one magazine dedicated to Routers that you may
find helpful. The owners manual doesn't go into depth on all the various
applications for a router.

Simply loosen the nut on the motor shaft and this will relieve the pressure
on the collet. Now slide the router cutter shank into the collet and
tighten the nut to clamp the bit into the router.

Some Sears models have a lever that slides into place to hold the motor
shaft while you tighten or loosen the nut. Other Sears models have a
position on the motor switch that locks the motor shaft.

Do not change bits on the router while it is plugged into power.

Have you tried Sears for a manual?

Don Dando


"RB" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> ok, before anyone tells me I'm using a poor tool...I know, I know.
>
> Anyway, I'm trying to locate a user manual for a Craftsman router (model
> 17505) that was handed down to me.
>
> Additionally, I'm embarrassed at how naive I am when it comes to using
> routers. I'm pretty new to woodworking, but I've built some things that I
> know a router would've come in handy for (octogon poker table, wine rack,
> etc). Problem is, I don't even know how to load a bit let alone
effectivly
> use a router.
>
> One other note, I've read some horror stories about mounting certain
models
> upside down for use in a table. Any issues with this particular model?
> Should I look into the "router table accessory" for my 10" Craftsman table
> saw (Craftsman...I know, I know)?
>
> Thanks everyone for your advice.
>
>
>

FK

"Frank Ketchum"

in reply to "RB" on 05/03/2004 8:04 PM

06/03/2004 5:06 AM


"RB" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> ok, before anyone tells me I'm using a poor tool...I know, I know.
>
> Anyway, I'm trying to locate a user manual for a Craftsman router (model
> 17505) that was handed down to me.
>
> Additionally, I'm embarrassed at how naive I am when it comes to using
> routers. I'm pretty new to woodworking, but I've built some things that I
> know a router would've come in handy for (octogon poker table, wine rack,
> etc). Problem is, I don't even know how to load a bit let alone
effectivly
> use a router.
>

I suggest that you pick up a book on the subject of routing. Routers are a
very handy tool to use in a woodworking shop and they are safe when used
correctly. As to specific questions, you can post here and/or search the
archives at http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=en&group=rec.woodworking

Frank


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