For many woodworkers, the router gets the hands-down vote as the most capable and convenient portable power tool in the shop. Whether handheld or mounted in a table, it excels at tasks ranging from profiling edges and cutting joints to pattern-routing and creating decorative inlays. The tool’s design and engineering are just as impressive as its multifaceted usefulness. Considering all the tricks this workhorse can perform, it’s not surprising that it requires regular care and occasional first aid.
I’ll first touch on preventive maintenance and then run through six potential problem areas to help you diagnose router ills and perform the necessary cures. Use the illustration on this page to locate the key problem areas on your router. To assist with the inspection and repairs, I’ve prepared a router “first aid kit” consisting of the items listed in the sidebar on the next page. Finally, should the repair be too major, I’ll steer you to the nearest tool service center for professional help.
1 Preventive maintenance
As part of your router’s health care program, preventive maintenance can help ward off problems due to normal wear and tear. Surprisingly, fine dust and debris are your router’s worst enemies. They can lead to switch failure, accelerated brush wear, and overheating. It’s a good practice to regularly blow out accumulated debris with low-pressure air. (High-pressure air from a compressor can force dirt into previously uncontaminated parts.) A quick visual inspection before each use will help you identify developing problems.
When a router ailment causes poor performance or no performance at all, it’s time to reach for the first aid kit. Always unplug your router before making any repair.
Denne historien er fra April - May 2020-utgaven av Woodcraft Magazine.
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Denne historien er fra April - May 2020-utgaven av Woodcraft Magazine.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Beech
Plain looks, but a solid performer
Working with PLASTIC LAMINATE
Adding a durable, smooth, and colorful surface to your work
High-Tech ROUTER TABLE
A state-of-the-art shop essential
Albers-Inspired NESTING TABLES
A colorful array of Bauhaus utility
Desktop ORGANIZERS
Mini modules for your modern workspace
Joiner's MALLET
A hard-hitting shop hammer
Battery-backed biscuiting
DeWalt 20V Max XR Biscuit Joiner
Crosscut SLED
A basic build of a crucial table saw accessory
Power-carving BOWLS
Tools and techniques for sculpting
Library STEPS
Mitered box joints give rise to an updated classic