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My next project is a router table. I'm tired of my current beat up piece of plywood/workmate/scrap wood fence set up. I'm currently using a PC 690 and was thinking about upgrading to a router with a built in above the table lift mechanism like a Triton or a Milwaukee http://www.newwoodworker.com/reviews/milw562520rvu.html . I mainly use my table for pattern routing (headstocks, etc) and truss rod and CF slots, so my current set up is adequate. But, like everyone, shop space is at a premium so I want to add some storage space where there currently isn't any (bits, wrenches, etc) and even mount my rarely used portable planer at the base of this new table. Anyone have any opinions on lifts, routers or mounting plates?

Thanks,

Bob

I made my own router table out of MDF and glued formica to both sides. It is very stable and the formica gives a nice working surface. I installed a router plate made by Rousseau in the table which worked adequately. I have recently updated my router to a PC690 and have done some research into compatible router lifts and the article I read suggested WoodPecker lifts. They appear to be relatively inexpensive and the quick lift function seems to be a real nice feature. I'll be getting one soon.

I had the same dilema .The lift that I got is from Jess Em and can be moved in .001" increments .Much finer than you will find on any router.
I ended up buying a package from Rockler ,mid level table ,stand ,fence, featherboards ,lift switch,casters. I already had a PC 690 in hand.The 690 has enough power for my needs .
I really like the lift ,mount the router once. Bit changes and depth adjustments are above the table now.They sell cabinet kits that fit the stands also ,if you need it.
I know that setup may be more than you need ,but if it is going to take up space why not get max versatility and accuracy for all the router table tasks.

Hope that helps

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How long is that in luthyears?

I've got the 3hp Triton router. It doesn't have an above the table lift mechanism, you'd need a lift plate for that (unless they've added one since I bought mine a few years ago). It does have an above the table bit change facility - the collet locks in place when it's raised to maximum, so you only need the one spanner. It's a great router though, designed for table mounting, it looks too top heavy for hand held use, but the center of gravity is low, so it only looks top heavy.

The optional template guide kit is pretty useful and worth the extra cash.

I think I'm going to go with some of what was suggested in the woodnet forum archives. Pat Warner http://patwarner.com/router_table.html likes the milwaukee 5625 mounted directly to an mdf top. That saves on the cost of the table, insert and lift. Take a look at his fence, it's a work of art.

I've used the 3/4" MDF route, laminated both sides. I also had a rectangular opening in the top, and rectangular bases on several routers, so they were all drop-in.

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https://soundcloud.com/jeffreylsuits/he ... -runnin-13

Take a look at the Bench Dog router cabinets. I Love mine.
Terry

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It's not what you don't know that hurts you, it's what you do know that's wrong.

When ever I look at this sort of project, I look at where it is going to "hurt me" the worst:
1) Time away from building guitars, 2) my wallet

After looking at a new table, lift, new router motor, AND new cabinet, the wallet was screaming.

So I bought the table, lift, and router. I got the Jessem Lift with the big PC motor. I mostly do template routing and wanted the horsepower. Fiddling with recessing the lift into the top wasn't worth it to me, so I bought the table to match the lift. One of the prerequisites there was to get a table that would allow me to use my old fence.

I then built the cabinet. I used Norm's plans and modified them to fit my table size and added wheels for portability. The cabinet goes together fast and only took me a day to put it all together (although through the magic of television, Norm builds his in an hour! ). The video tape was helpful, but not required.

Joe

MDF cabinet and top with melamine finish. Drawer for bits, spare router etc. safety power switch and store-bought fence. I love the stability of this table. I use it daily for some process or other. Binding channels, edge trimming, truss rod slotting, "jointer" to thickness shop-made bindings, pattern/templates, neck tapering, heel block shaping and morticing....
My main machine for many, many tasks.

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Greg
http://garibaldiinstruments.com/