I bought this same router a few months ago in a kit w\fixed and plunge
base and included aluminum table insert plate. Some others have
complained about this router's plunge base being not so smooth. I have
only used it with the fixed base so far. I like the soft start. I hate
the switch. I have to re-learn how to shut it off every time and that
can be a bit dangerous when you are done and trying to set it down and
have to fumble to shut it off. Once I remember how to shut it off it
is easy but not very intuitive. Seems like it will likely break easy
also which with my normal fast and rough handling means it will break
for sure.

I will likely mount this in a table permanently and add an on-off
switch on the table. Yes it's only 2 1/4 hp not 3 but it has variable
speed and I have a shaper for the bigger stuff and with the included
plate and above table adjust I still think I got a great deal.

On Feb 23, 10:13*am, "Norm Dresner" wrote:
I'm a woodworker whose techniques rely on the router table, but as a retiree
on a strict budget, $2-300 for a raiser seemed out of my price range.

This past weekend,www.woodcraft.comsent me an e-mail advertising the Freud
FT1700 variable speed 2-1/4HP router for $99 -- while supplies last. *It
didn't take much research to realize what a find that was. *The router has a
built-in mechanism for above-table height adjustment that, at least on two
tries, works flawlessly and easily. *It comes with a single wrench -- and a
shaft lock -- and a fixed base and that's about it. *Just basic stuff, but
I've permanently removed my PC from the table to plunge use and intend to
permanently keep the Freud in the table -- I've even removed the handles to
make a little more room underneath.

I'm smiling from ear to ear after using it and I'm in love. *(I have
absolutely no connection whatsoever with the vendor, just a really happy
customer).

* * Norm