Hi! It's been too long since I hang around in here. Of course I didn't
forget you guys, and I am sure LOT new friends are in here too! Greetings.

I bought a brand new PC 7518 yesterday. I thought the junk router table I
got would work for a while but found out it won't even attach the 7518. So,
anyway, I have two things needing help/advices.

1) I was trying to be open-mind to find a 3-1/4HP router, but seems PC are
only widely available over other brands? I was looking for DeWalt, Bosch,
even Milwaukee Elec, and couldn't find much out there. I end up buying the
PC 7518 (I haven't even turn it on yet). The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand? It would be so much easier
(for router table), would it? I have PC 690 which I have to use two
wrenches. Now that I haven't been cutting wood for too long, I am just
getting back to warm up my shop. By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

2) Router tables... yes I read Pat Warner and others. I rather buy a router
table than make one at this time. Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too? I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity? Since I am "new" to raise-panels, I
got PC 7518 (should I keep it?) and need a table. I have questions, but I
am sure you know those common questions, so fire away tell me your
experience/suggestions (or guide me to another thread, post the date and
subject)... Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)? Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).

Thank you. This is my first time trying out the Xnews (just want to stop
using the MS NewsReader, but still use IE ).

Chuck

"CNT" wrote in message

The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has
a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand?

Only if the spindle lock will stay in place. If you have to hold it while
turning the wrench, no advantage. In a table, you'd want the lock on top so
yo don't have to fumble under it. I use two wrenches and it is really very
easy. Had a router with a lock and thought I'd miss it. I don't.


By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I
am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

What would you update? It seems to work and has been around a long time.


Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too?

Never saw theirs. I have a Benchdog and it is very nice.

I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity?

I've not ever needed it, but there are more experienced than I so they may
have other thoughts.


Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)?

Depends on the shop layout. It can be handy to have extra support, but I've
not needed it yet myself. You don't want something to come off the router
table and bump into the saw or bench top next to it. My router table is
about 1/4" higher than the bench next to it for that reason.


Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).

Just drill some holes in a block of wood. I used some scraps. You can get
fancy if you want, or keep it just a block with holes. Make the holes
larger than 1/2" though or the bits can get stuck in ther fairly hard. Or
so I'm told. I keep them in the option drawer on my BD table. Same with the
wrenches.

I have had a 7518 in a table for several years. It is a real horse - plenty
of power for raised panel doors. My only gripe is the electronic speed
control. Many times when running it at the slowest speed (10,000 rpm) to do
raised panels, the motor simply stops as it is trying to compensate for the
load and maintain constant speed. You have to power off the router and turn
it back on and try again. It bugs the hell out of me. Ease into it and it
is usually okay. Now, since you have a 7518 but have not yet used it, I
suggest you return it and buy the Milwaukee 3 hp that competes with it. I
saw one demoed at a woodworking show recently, and the first words out of
the reps' mouth was "how many of you have a 7518 that stalls out". Numerous
hands raised. He then demonstated how the Milwaukee does not do that. The
price is the same and it's enough to convince me to go with big red. I
haven't checked but I gotta believe it's on Amazon - and probably with no
tax and no shipping. I have several Milwaukee tools including the mid size
router that competes with the 690, and it is clearly superior to P-C.

Regarding the two wrench collet, I bought a special collet extender from
Woodcraft that replaces the standard collet. It tightens down the bit with
a T-handle allen wrench. It was pricey - $50, but it works perfect. I
should also mention that I have my 7518 mounted on a Jessem Rout-R-Lift.
Also pricey, but worth its weight in gold. Nowadays, you can buy routers
with an above table lift built into the base.

Bob



"CNT" wrote in message
...
Hi! It's been too long since I hang around in here. Of course I didn't
forget you guys, and I am sure LOT new friends are in here too! Greetings.

I bought a brand new PC 7518 yesterday. I thought the junk router table I
got would work for a while but found out it won't even attach the 7518.
So,
anyway, I have two things needing help/advices.

1) I was trying to be open-mind to find a 3-1/4HP router, but seems PC are
only widely available over other brands? I was looking for DeWalt, Bosch,
even Milwaukee Elec, and couldn't find much out there. I end up buying the
PC 7518 (I haven't even turn it on yet). The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has
a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand? It would be so much easier
(for router table), would it? I have PC 690 which I have to use two
wrenches. Now that I haven't been cutting wood for too long, I am just
getting back to warm up my shop. By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I
am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

2) Router tables... yes I read Pat Warner and others. I rather buy a
router
table than make one at this time. Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too? I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity? Since I am "new" to raise-panels, I
got PC 7518 (should I keep it?) and need a table. I have questions, but I
am sure you know those common questions, so fire away tell me your
experience/suggestions (or guide me to another thread, post the date and
subject)... Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the
top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)? Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).

Thank you. This is my first time trying out the Xnews (just want to stop
using the MS NewsReader, but still use IE ).

Chuck

Hi CNT,
I would suggest you look at the Triton. I have had mine for two years. Very
easy to change bits above the table and height adjustments are a breeze. There
is no need to consider buying a lifting device down the road. Also has great
speed control. I think it is still the best bang for the buck when you consider
the built in features. Cheers, JG

CNT wrote:

Hi! It's been too long since I hang around in here. Of course I didn't
forget you guys, and I am sure LOT new friends are in here too! Greetings.

I bought a brand new PC 7518 yesterday. I thought the junk router table I
got would work for a while but found out it won't even attach the 7518. So,
anyway, I have two things needing help/advices.

1) I was trying to be open-mind to find a 3-1/4HP router, but seems PC are
only widely available over other brands? I was looking for DeWalt, Bosch,
even Milwaukee Elec, and couldn't find much out there. I end up buying the
PC 7518 (I haven't even turn it on yet). The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand? It would be so much easier
(for router table), would it? I have PC 690 which I have to use two
wrenches. Now that I haven't been cutting wood for too long, I am just
getting back to warm up my shop. By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

2) Router tables... yes I read Pat Warner and others. I rather buy a router
table than make one at this time. Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too? I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity? Since I am "new" to raise-panels, I
got PC 7518 (should I keep it?) and need a table. I have questions, but I
am sure you know those common questions, so fire away tell me your
experience/suggestions (or guide me to another thread, post the date and
subject)... Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)? Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).

Thank you. This is my first time trying out the Xnews (just want to stop
using the MS NewsReader, but still use IE ).

Chuck

http://www.jessem.com/rout_r_lift_fx.htm

According to link above, PC 7518 will not work with it? Meaning I need to
look for an older model for it? There are other table-base thing (what are
those exactly called?) on market, I will look into it.

I will keep looking and see if I can get my hands onto the Mil Ele model
(is it a fixed-base or plunge?).

Chuck


7518 for several years...
the motor simply stops as it is trying to compensate for the load
suggest you return it and buy the Milwaukee 3 hp

I have my 7518 mounted on a Jessem Rout-R-Lift

Will look into it, thanks!

Chuck

Triton

Just thinking of all options. Maybe it just not a big issue.

Had a router with a lock and thought I'd miss it. I don't.

Must be THAT good, huh!

What would you update?
It seems to work and has been around a long time.

Do you have lot of dents/holes on your wall? lol (just kidding) Good thought.
I was thinking about the miter saw and the (bench) router table on the same
level (one side of shop).

Depends on the shop layout. It can be handy to have extra support,
but I've not needed it yet myself. You don't want something to come
off the router table and bump into the saw or bench top next to it.
My router table is about 1/4" higher than the bench next to it for
that reason.

"CNT" wrote in message
...
Hi! It's been too long since I hang around in here. Of course I didn't
forget you guys, and I am sure LOT new friends are in here too! Greetings.

I bought a brand new PC 7518 yesterday. I thought the junk router table I
got would work for a while but found out it won't even attach the 7518.
So,
anyway, I have two things needing help/advices.

1) I was trying to be open-mind to find a 3-1/4HP router, but seems PC are
only widely available over other brands? I was looking for DeWalt, Bosch,
even Milwaukee Elec, and couldn't find much out there. I end up buying the
PC 7518 (I haven't even turn it on yet). The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has
a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand? It would be so much easier
(for router table), would it? I have PC 690 which I have to use two
wrenches. Now that I haven't been cutting wood for too long, I am just
getting back to warm up my shop. By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I
am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

2) Router tables... yes I read Pat Warner and others. I rather buy a
router
table than make one at this time. Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too? I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity? Since I am "new" to raise-panels, I
got PC 7518 (should I keep it?) and need a table. I have questions, but I
am sure you know those common questions, so fire away tell me your
experience/suggestions (or guide me to another thread, post the date and
subject)... Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the
top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)? Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).

Thank you. This is my first time trying out the Xnews (just want to stop
using the MS NewsReader, but still use IE ).

Chuck
CNT,

I have the 7518 and the Bench Dog Router Table and Lift. I couldn't be more
pleased with either of them. I have not run into the problem with the
router shutting off at lower speeds, but I also don't do a significant
amount of raised panel work either. This router has handled a lot of work.
The BD lift system is great and designed specifically for the 7518. The
fence system is easy to use and flexible as well.

As for the wrenches. I personally find it very easy to use the two
wrenches. I raise the router up in the BD Lift, and then change the bit
from the top of the table. The single wrench option on my other routers
still requires that it be held by one hand and a wrench to loosen or
tighten. I personally prefer the leverage with two wrenches when loosening.

David

On Tue, 01 Mar 2005 03:59:38 -0000, CNT wrote:

Hi! It's been too long since I hang around in here. Of course I didn't
forget you guys, and I am sure LOT new friends are in here too! Greetings.

I bought a brand new PC 7518 yesterday. I thought the junk router table I
got would work for a while but found out it won't even attach the 7518. So,
anyway, I have two things needing help/advices.

1) I was trying to be open-mind to find a 3-1/4HP router, but seems PC are
only widely available over other brands? I was looking for DeWalt, Bosch,
even Milwaukee Elec, and couldn't find much out there. I end up buying the
PC 7518 (I haven't even turn it on yet). The 7518 collet does not have a
spindle lock (have to use two wrenches). Is there 3-1/4HP router that has a
spindle lock that I can do it with one hand? It would be so much easier
(for router table), would it? I have PC 690 which I have to use two
wrenches. Now that I haven't been cutting wood for too long, I am just
getting back to warm up my shop. By now, I thought the PC 7518 would be
changed/updated after all those years, but it hasn't changed a bit!?!? I am
planning to use this router for router table (most likely leave it there)
and start trying out raise-panels.

The base of the PC 7518 is attached to the underside of the router
table. The motor is screwed/unscrewed to remove and install bits
using the two wrenches. That's good anyway, because this (heavy)
router should be removed anyway to prevent the insert from sagging.


2) Router tables... yes I read Pat Warner and others. I rather buy a router
table than make one at this time. Right away, Bench Dog comes to my mind.
But, Rockler seems to make good ones too? I saw one fence that can fold to
like 45 degree, is that a necessity? Since I am "new" to raise-panels, I
got PC 7518 (should I keep it?) and need a table. I have questions, but I
am sure you know those common questions, so fire away tell me your
experience/suggestions (or guide me to another thread, post the date and
subject)... Should I get a bench model (and I make the legs so that the top
levels with my DeWalt Table Saw)? Sure would like something to store the
1/2" bits, but that I can make (got a Jet Drill Press).


I know you don't want to build one at this time, but you'll get
exactly what you want in a router table (dust collection, electrical
connection, bit storage, proper height, noise reduction, etc.) You
can always buy a pre-fab fence. I like Norm's router station plans,
but I altered the DC collection to have the port off the side rather
than the back, plus made the drawers larger.

Thank you. This is my first time trying out the Xnews (just want to stop
using the MS NewsReader, but still use IE ).

Chuck

CNT wrote:
http://www.jessem.com/rout_r_lift_fx.htm

According to link above, PC 7518 will not work with it? Meaning I need to
look for an older model for it? There are other table-base thing (what are
those exactly called?) on market, I will look into it.


The Rout_R_Lift FX is designed for 2HP routers, which the 7518 ain't. You need
a Mast-R Lift, which they still make:

http://www.jessem.com/mast_r_lift.htm

I've got the router and the lift and can testify to how great they work
together.



--
Mortimer Schnerd, RN

VE

BOY! I just came back from Woodcraft and Rockler! Those router tables are
expensive! I thought it would be about $200 for the top and lift mechanism
assembly. Well, the JessEm Mast-R-Lift (plate model) is $270 (WC is black /
R is blue). The Mast-R-Lift Excel Top (w/MicroDial) is $550, but will have
to buy THEIR fence (unless I could cut a line on the tabletop for other
fence). So, I guess I will HAVE TO build my own (only will buy a top from
whoever, the rest I will do). I will have to look into Norm's website
(thanks for mentioning Norm!).

One thing I like about the new Mast-R-Lift Excel Top is the vacume is in
beneath the table top (but will still have to attach both beneath and top).

Could you explain (below statement) why? Is it a problem (or tricky) to
change bits from the top?

The base of the PC 7518 is attached to the underside of the router
table. The motor is screwed/unscrewed to remove and install bits
using the two wrenches. That's good anyway, because this (heavy)
router should be removed anyway to prevent the insert from sagging.

MastRLift is for the 7518

http://www.jessem.com/mast_r_lift.htm




"CNT" wrote in message
...
http://www.jessem.com/rout_r_lift_fx.htm

According to link above, PC 7518 will not work with it? Meaning I need to
look for an older model for it? There are other table-base thing (what are
those exactly called?) on market, I will look into it.

I will keep looking and see if I can get my hands onto the Mil Ele model
(is it a fixed-base or plunge?).

Chuck


7518 for several years...
the motor simply stops as it is trying to compensate for the load
suggest you return it and buy the Milwaukee 3 hp

I have my 7518 mounted on a Jessem Rout-R-Lift

bobthebuilderyeshecan wrote:
MastRLift is for the 7518
http://www.jessem.com/mast_r_lift.htm


One improvement they need to make to this (if they haven't
already) is to through drill and tap the Allen head leveling
screws so ya can do it all with the insert in place. I
think this improvement was/has been made on the "lesser
JessEms".

UA100, who will be through drilling and tapping his so you
can level it with the insert in place/no really, it occurred
to Delta a long time ago/decades or something...

I got it. So, even with the Mast-R-Lift, I still (can easily?) remove the
motor and leave it off while not in use. It only got a clip to hold the
motor.

Since I haven't worked on a router table, it only looks reasonable (makes
senses) to have the lift mechanism. I know that reaching underneath still
will works (will still have to reach underneath to turn on the power
switch for budget people ).

After little research, looks like JessEm Mast-R-Lift and table-top is way
to go (not the "Excel Top" due to overpricing). Comparing stuff and
price, JessEm table-top is very good (non-wood) for few dollars more. I
still have to look for a fence (might endup with JessEm, but as of now I
am still looking). I will just make the legs with 2x4's (maybe cabinets
too).

Thanks for replies. More are welcome since I am still taking it easy
researching. Oh, BTW, I think I will keep the PC 7518.

Chuck

The base of the PC 7518 is attached to the underside of the router
table. The motor is screwed/unscrewed to remove and install bits
using the two wrenches. That's good anyway, because this (heavy)
router should be removed anyway to prevent the insert from sagging.