Craftsman Router Table Combo: Precision Woodworking

Craftsman router table combo represents the pinnacle of accuracy and versatility for woodworking enthusiasts. It integrates seamlessly with routers, enhancing their functionality for creating intricate designs and smooth edges. The robust fence systems ensure precision, making this combo an indispensable tool for both professional craftsmen and DIY hobbyists. Whether you are shaping custom moldings or executing complex joinery, a Craftsman router table combo delivers unparalleled performance.

Craftsman router tables… Ah, where do I even begin? For generations of woodworkers, from the weekend hobbyist tinkering in their garage to the seasoned pro crafting masterpieces, these tables have been a steadfast companion. They’re more than just a surface; they are a gateway to precision, versatility, and, dare I say, a whole lot of woodworking fun!

The name “Craftsman” itself carries a certain weight, doesn’t it? It whispers of quality, reliability, and a commitment to helping folks like you and me bring our creative visions to life without breaking the bank. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes these router tables tick, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.

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A Quick Look at Craftsman’s History

Imagine a time before the internet, before smartphones, when Sears, Roebuck, and Co. was the go-to destination for pretty much everything. That’s where the Craftsman brand was born, way back in 1927. Sears wanted to offer high-quality tools at prices that everyday folks could afford, and boy, did they succeed! The name “Craftsman” was chosen after Arthur Barrows, the then head of the Sears hardware department, was offered the option to name the tool line after himself or to choose one of the offered options. He chose the name “Craftsman,” believing it!

Craftsman quickly gained a reputation for durable, well-designed tools that could withstand the rigors of any workshop. It wasn’t just a brand; it was a symbol of American ingenuity and a promise of lasting value. While ownership has shifted over the years, that commitment to quality remains a cornerstone of the Craftsman name.

Why Router Tables Matter in Woodworking

Okay, history lesson over! Now, why all the fuss about router tables in the first place? Well, think of a router table as a router’s super-powered sidekick. It takes a handheld tool and transforms it into a stable, precise, and infinitely more versatile woodworking machine.

With a router table, you can tackle tasks that would be downright dangerous or impossible to do freehand. Need to create perfectly straight edges? Check. Want to shape intricate curves? No problem. Looking to cut precise grooves or join pieces of wood together seamlessly? A router table has got you covered. They enhance precision, boost safety, and unlock a whole new world of woodworking possibilities.

What We’ll Cover in This Guide

In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to delve deep into the world of Craftsman router tables. We’ll explore all the essential components, from the tabletop to the router lift. We’ll discuss the materials used in their construction, the must-have accessories that will take your routing game to the next level.

We’ll also walk you through essential routing techniques, share invaluable safety tips, and provide guidance on keeping your router table in tip-top shape for years to come. Plus, we’ll even tackle common troubleshooting issues, so you can get back to creating without skipping a beat. By the end of this journey, you’ll not only understand the ins and outs of your Craftsman router table, but you’ll also be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle any woodworking project that comes your way. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s get routing!

Understanding the Key Components of a Craftsman Router Table

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of your Craftsman router table. Think of it like understanding the anatomy of a woodworking superhero – knowing each part and what it does makes you a more effective woodworker!

Router Table: The Foundation: First up, the router table itself! This is your flat, stable surface where the magic happens. Imagine trying to build a house on a wobbly foundation—doesn’t work, right? The same goes for routing. A good table ensures smooth, accurate cuts. Look for something robust and flat.
Router Lift: Precision Height Adjustment: Next, we have the router lift. Ever tried adjusting a router bit height with tiny shims and guesswork? A router lift is your sanity-saver. It lets you make micro-adjustments to the bit height, giving you that perfect cut depth every single time.
Fence: Guiding Straight Cuts: The fence is your trusty sidekick for straight cuts. It guides your workpiece along the bit, ensuring accuracy and consistency. Some fences are simple and straight, while others have adjustable faces for even more control.
Table Inserts/Plates: Versatility for Different Bits: Think of these as interchangeable lenses for your woodworking camera. Different bits require different sized openings. Table inserts let you use a wide range of bit sizes without having huge, dangerous gaps around the bit.
Router Motor: Powering the Cuts: The heart of your router table is the motor. More power means you can tackle tougher woods and larger bits without bogging down. Pay attention to the horsepower rating and speed settings to match your projects.
Router Base: Attachment to the Table: This is how your router becomes one with the table. It needs to be a secure and stable connection so the router doesn’t move around during operation.
Router Collet: Securing the Router Bit: This little piece is super important. A clean, properly tightened collet ensures your bit stays put. A loose bit is a dangerous bit!
Router Bits: The Cutting Tools: These are the stars of the show! From straight bits to ogee bits, there’s a router bit for every job.
Miter Slot: Making Angled Cuts: This slot allows you to use a miter gauge for precise angled cuts. Think picture frames and fancy joinery.
Dust Collection Port: Keeping the Workspace Clean: Routing can create a ton of dust, which is bad for your lungs and visibility. A dust collection port lets you hook up a shop vac and keep your workspace clean and safe.
Power Switch: Convenient Control: A readily accessible power switch is crucial. You need to be able to turn off the router quickly in case of an emergency.
Legs/Stand: Providing Stability: Just like the table itself, the legs or stand need to be stable. You don’t want your router table wobbling around while you’re trying to make a precise cut.
Starting Pin/Post: Guiding Curved Shapes: When routing curved shapes, a starting pin gives you a pivot point to control the workpiece. This is essential for freehand routing.
Variable Speed Control: Adjusting Router Speed: Different bits and materials require different speeds. Variable speed control lets you dial in the perfect speed for the job, preventing burning and tear-out.

Materials and Build Quality: What to Look For

Alright, let’s talk materials. You wouldn’t build a house out of cardboard, would you? Well, the same logic applies to your router table. The materials used directly impact its durability, performance, and overall lifespan. Let’s break down what you’re likely to encounter with a Craftsman router table.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): The Common Tabletop Material

Affordability and Flatness

MDF, or Medium-Density Fiberboard, is a super common choice for router tabletops. Think of it as the reliable minivan of woodworking materials. It’s affordable, readily available, and offers a remarkably flat surface. Why is flatness important? Because a flat surface ensures consistent cuts! No one wants a wobbly, uneven routing experience.

However, MDF has its quirks. It’s basically made of compressed wood fibers held together with glue, and while that makes it flat, it also makes it pretty sensitive to moisture. Spill your coffee on it, and it might start to swell like a balloon animal at a kid’s party. It’s also not the most durable material out there. Over time, it can sag or warp, especially if it’s not properly supported. If you go for an MDF tabletop, make sure it’s thick enough and well-supported to prevent any future headaches.

Phenolic Resin: The Durable Tabletop Option

Durability and Resistance to Wear

If MDF is the minivan, phenolic resin is like a rugged SUV. It’s tougher, more durable, and can handle a beating. Phenolic resin is a composite material known for its high strength, rigidity, and resistance to wear and tear. It’s like the Chuck Norris of router table materials – it just doesn’t quit.

This stuff is more resistant to moisture than MDF, meaning you don’t have to baby it quite as much. It also holds up better to scratches and impacts. The downside? It’s more expensive. But if you’re a serious woodworker who plans on putting their router table through its paces, the investment in a phenolic resin tabletop might just save you money in the long run by avoiding replacements.

Other Materials Used: Aluminum, Steel, and Plastic

Benefits

Beyond the tabletop, you’ll find other materials playing key roles in your Craftsman router table.

Aluminum: Often used for fences and other components requiring precision and light weight. Aluminum is great because it’s strong, doesn’t rust, and is easy to machine. It provides a smooth, reliable surface for guiding your work.
Steel: Look for steel in the base or legs of the table. Steel provides essential stability and support. You want your router table to stand firm, even when you’re wrestling with a large workpiece.
Plastic: You’ll often find plastic in knobs, handles, and inserts. High-quality plastics are durable and can withstand regular use. Just make sure they’re not flimsy or prone to cracking.

Enhancing Functionality: Must-Have Router Table Accessories

So, you’ve got your Craftsman router table all set up, huh? Awesome! But let’s be honest, a router table alone is like a superhero without their gadgets. Sure, they’re strong, but they can be so much more efficient and safe with the right tools. That’s where accessories come into play. They’re not just fancy add-ons; they’re the secret sauce to unlocking the full potential of your router table. This section dives into those “must-have” goodies that’ll have you routing like a pro in no time. Let’s get started!

Featherboards: Ensuring Safe, Consistent Cuts

Ever feel like your workpiece is playing tag with the router bit? Not cool! Featherboards are your new best friends. Think of them as your extra set of hands, but way more consistent and less likely to get distracted by a shiny object. These clever little devices apply consistent pressure to your workpiece, holding it firmly against the fence and the table.

Why are they important? First and foremost, safety. Featherboards significantly reduce the risk of kickback (when the workpiece is thrown back at you), which can be downright scary and dangerous. Secondly, they enhance cut quality. By keeping the wood snug against the fence, you achieve smoother, more consistent cuts. No more wobbly edges!

Hold-Downs: Securing Workpieces

Imagine trying to carve a pumpkin while it’s rolling around – frustrating, right? Hold-downs do exactly what they say: they hold your workpiece down! Whether it’s a vertical hold-down keeping your piece tight to the fence or a horizontal one pinning it to the table, these accessories ensure your wood stays put.

How do they help? Hold-downs are especially useful when working with smaller or unusually shaped pieces. They provide that extra bit of security that allows you to focus on guiding the wood smoothly without worrying about it shifting or lifting. Precision is key in woodworking, and hold-downs help deliver just that!

Miter Gauge: Accurate Angled Cuts

Alright, geometry time! Need to make precise angled cuts? Ditch the guesswork and grab a miter gauge. This accessory slides along the miter slot of your router table, allowing you to make accurate crosscuts and angled cuts with ease.

Why use one? A miter gauge ensures that your angled cuts are accurate and repeatable. Perfect for creating picture frames, boxes, or any project that requires precise angles. Many miter gauges also come with adjustable stops, allowing you to quickly and easily replicate the same angle multiple times. Plus, it’s just way more fun than using a protractor and hoping for the best!

Mastering Router Table Techniques: A Practical Guide

Okay, buckle up, woodworking wizards! We’re diving headfirst into the nitty-gritty of router table techniques. Think of your router table as your woodworking sidekick, ready to tackle tasks that would make your hand tools weep. Let’s get this bread and butter.

Routing: The Basic Technique

Alright, picture this: you’ve got your router table all set up, bit installed, and you’re ready to rumble. But before you go all gung-ho, let’s cover the basics. Always ensure your workpiece is held firmly against the fence (or bearing, depending on the operation) and feed it smoothly and steadily into the rotating bit. The direction you feed the stock matters! You typically want to move the wood against the rotation of the bit – this is called conventional routing. Going the other way? That’s climb cutting, and while it can be useful in specific situations, it’s more aggressive and riskier for beginners. Start slow, take shallow cuts, and listen to your router – it’ll tell you if you’re pushing it too hard.

Edge Forming: Creating Decorative Edges

Want to add a little pizzazz to your projects? Edge forming is where it’s at! With the right bit, you can create everything from a simple round-over to a fancy ogee. The key here is to adjust the bit height so it only removes the desired amount of material. Pro-tip: practice on scrap wood before committing to your final piece. And always remember to feed your material in the correct direction.

Shaping: Working with Curves

Curves can be intimidating, but not with a router table! For shaping curved edges, you’ll usually use a bearing-guided bit. The bearing rides along the edge of your workpiece, allowing you to follow the curve accurately. You can use a template to define the shape. Safety Alert! Be extra cautious when routing curves, as it can be easier for the bit to grab the wood. Use a starting pin or post to control the workpiece at the beginning of the cut.

Grooving/Rabbeting: Creating Channels and Recesses

Grooves and rabbets are essential for all sorts of joinery and decorative work. For grooves, you’ll typically use a straight bit. For rabbets, you can use a rabbeting bit or a straight bit with the fence set to the desired width. Remember to take multiple passes if you need to remove a lot of material. Don’t try to hog it all off in one go! It is safer and cleaner.

Joinery: Making Wood Connections

Router tables are joinery ninjas. You can use them to create mortise-and-tenon joints, dovetails, and more. For mortise-and-tenon joints, you can use a mortising jig or freehand it with a straight bit and the fence. For dovetails, you’ll need a dovetail jig and bit. Joinery is where precision counts, so take your time, double-check your measurements, and make sure everything is dialed in before you start cutting. You’ll be a joinery jedi in no time.

Safety First: Essential Precautions for Router Table Use

Alright, let’s talk safety! We all love the precision and versatility of a router table, especially when you’re trying to create that perfect edge or a complex joint. But let’s be real: spinning blades moving at thousands of RPMs demand respect. Think of your router table like a race car – incredibly powerful and capable, but only if you know what you’re doing. Neglecting safety is like driving that race car blindfolded – a recipe for disaster. So, before you even think about turning that power switch, let’s nail down some essential safety precautions. Your fingers (and your ears, and your eyes!) will thank you. Always prioritize safety!

Safety Glasses: Protecting Your Eyes

Imagine tiny wood chips and debris flying towards your face at warp speed. Not a pretty picture, right? That’s why safety glasses are absolutely non-negotiable. Don’t even think about using a router table without them. We’re talking about impact-resistant glasses or a face shield here, not just your everyday reading glasses. Think of them as a personal force field for your precious peepers. You only get one set of eyes, so let’s keep them safe, shall we?

Hearing Protection: Preventing Hearing Damage

Router motors can get LOUD. Like, really loud. Over time, that constant whine can do serious damage to your hearing. Trust me, you don’t want to be that person who has to ask “Huh? What did you say?” all the time. Invest in a good pair of earplugs or earmuffs. They’re cheap, comfortable, and can save you from a lifetime of hearing problems. Your ears will thank you, especially when you want to listen to that sweet, sweet sound of a finely tuned guitar solo.

Push Sticks/Blocks: Safe Workpiece Guidance

Your fingers should never get too close to the router bit. That’s where push sticks and blocks come in. These little tools act as an extension of your hand, allowing you to guide the workpiece safely and precisely. Think of them as your safety net. They’re especially crucial when making narrow cuts or working with small pieces. Don’t be afraid to use them – they’re there to protect you! Practice using them, get comfortable with them, and make them a permanent part of your routing routine.

Router Guard: Shielding from the Bit

If your Craftsman router table came with a router guard, use it! A router guard is a protective cover that shields you from accidental contact with the spinning bit. It’s like a seatbelt for your fingers. While it might seem a bit cumbersome at first, it’s an extra layer of safety that can prevent serious injuries. If your table didn’t come with one, consider purchasing an aftermarket guard. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference.

Kickback: Understanding and Preventing

Kickback is one of the most dangerous things that can happen when using a router table. It occurs when the router bit catches the workpiece and throws it back at you with force. It’s sudden, unexpected, and can be incredibly dangerous. To prevent kickback, always feed the workpiece against the direction of the bit’s rotation. Use featherboards and hold-downs to keep the workpiece firmly against the fence and the table. Take small, controlled cuts, and never force the wood. Pay attention to the grain direction of the wood, and be extra careful when routing end grain. Understanding kickback is the first step to preventing it. Stay vigilant, stay focused, and always be aware of what the bit is doing.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Router Table in Top Condition

Alright, listen up, woodworkers! You’ve invested in a trusty Craftsman router table – a workhorse ready to tackle all your shaping, edging, and joinery dreams. But like any good tool, it needs a little TLC to keep it running smoothly and accurately for years to come. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t let your car go without an oil change, would you? Your router table deserves the same attention! Let’s dive into some easy maintenance tips to ensure your Craftsman router table stays in tip-top shape.

Routine Cleaning: Sweeping Away the Sawdust Blues

You know that mountain of sawdust that mysteriously appears after every project? Yeah, that’s the enemy. Dust buildup can wreak havoc on your router table’s moving parts and even pose a fire hazard. Thankfully, a little routine cleaning can go a long way.

After Each Use: Give your router table a quick once-over with a shop vacuum or a brush. Pay special attention to the router’s motor, collet, and the table surface itself.
Weekly Deep Clean: Once a week (or more, depending on how much you’re using it), give your router table a more thorough cleaning.
- Unplug the router (duh!).
- Use a vacuum to remove sawdust from every nook and cranny, including the motor housing, router base, and dust collection port.
- Wipe down the table surface with a damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution (avoid anything too harsh that could damage the finish).
- Clean the fence and miter slot with a brush or compressed air.
Lubrication: Like the tin man, sometimes your router table might need some oil to keep it moving. Check the router lift and fence adjustment mechanisms. If they seem stiff or sticky, apply a small amount of lubricant.
Rust Prevention: Especially in humid environments, rust can be a problem. Wipe down metal surfaces with a rust inhibitor or apply a thin coat of wax to prevent rust from forming.

Checking and Replacing Replacement Parts: Spotting Trouble Before It Starts

Regularly inspecting your router table for worn or damaged parts can prevent bigger problems down the road. Think of it as a woodworking wellness check!

Table Inserts/Plates: Table inserts are a wear item, especially if you’re frequently changing bits. Check them for cracks, chips, or excessive wear around the bit opening. Replace them if they’re damaged.
Router Bits: Inspect your router bits before each use. Look for signs of dullness, chips, or cracks. Dull bits can lead to poor cut quality and increase the risk of kickback. Sharpen or replace them as needed.
Power Cord: Check the power cord for frays, cuts, or exposed wires. A damaged power cord is a serious safety hazard and should be replaced immediately.
Router Collet: The collet is what holds the router bit in place, and it’s essential that it stays cleaned. Any dust or debris in the collet or on the router bit shank can prevent the bit from seating properly, leading to vibration and inaccurate cuts. You can clean it with a small brush.
Router Motor Brushes: If your router motor starts to sound different or loses power, the motor brushes may be worn out. Most Craftsman routers have replaceable brushes. Refer to your router’s manual for instructions on how to replace them.
Fasteners: Check all screws, bolts, and knobs for tightness. Loose fasteners can cause vibration and affect the accuracy of your cuts.
Fence: Check your fence before each use. Make sure the surface is straight, and that it’s aligned properly to the router bit.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your Craftsman router table running smoothly, accurately, and safely for many years to come. A little bit of care will help your workhorse stand the test of time, and keep you making beautiful woodworking projects without a hitch!

Troubleshooting Common Issues: Solutions to Frequent Problems

Let’s face it: even the best Craftsman router tables can throw you a curveball now and then. It’s like that old car you love – reliable most of the time, but occasionally needs a little TLC. Don’t panic! Most router table issues are easily fixed with a bit of detective work. We are here to help you with diagnosing and sorting out the solution to your router table to solve your problem.

Vibration Problems: Diagnosing and Fixing Vibration Issues

Ever felt like your router table is trying to moonwalk across the shop floor? Excessive vibration isn’t just annoying; it affects the quality of your cuts and can be dangerous. Here’s how to troubleshoot it:

Check Your Bit: An unbalanced or damaged router bit is the prime suspect. Remove the bit and inspect it for any signs of damage, like bent flutes or excessive wear. Even a tiny imperfection can cause major vibrations. Try a different bit and see if the problem disappears.
Tighten Everything!: Like a drummer who needs to tighten his hardware before a show, so too do you need to tighten your screws. Make sure all nuts, bolts, and screws on the router table, router base, and motor mount are snug. Loose connections can amplify vibrations.
Inspect the Router Base: Ensure the router base is flush and securely mounted to the table. Gaps or uneven contact can cause vibrations.
Balance the Load: Are you routing a particularly large or heavy piece of wood? Uneven weight distribution can contribute to vibration. Use support stands or outfeed tables to help balance the load.
Table Stability: Ensure your router table is sitting on a level surface. If the legs are uneven, it will vibrate when the router is in operation. Use shims under the legs to even it out.

Inconsistent Cuts: Identifying the Causes of Inconsistent Cuts and Fixing Them

Nothing’s more frustrating than a cut that wanders off course. It’s like trying to draw a straight line after one too many cups of coffee. Here’s how to get your cuts back on track:

Fence Alignment: The fence is your guide to straight cuts. Make sure it’s perfectly parallel to the router bit. Use a reliable measuring tool or a router table alignment tool to check and adjust the fence.
Bit Height: Inconsistent bit height can cause uneven cuts. Ensure the bit is set to the correct height and that the router lift mechanism is locking securely.
Feed Rate: Pushing the wood too quickly can cause the bit to chatter and wander. Slow down your feed rate and let the bit do the work.
Workpiece Support: Make sure the workpiece is fully supported throughout the cut. Use feather boards, hold-downs, or infeed/outfeed tables to keep the wood flat and stable.
Dull Bit: A dull router bit will struggle to cut cleanly, leading to inconsistent results. Replace the bit with a sharp one.

Motor Issues: Troubleshooting Motor Problems

A sputtering router motor is like a car with a flat tire – it’s not going anywhere fast. Here’s how to diagnose and fix common motor problems:

Power Supply: The first thing you need to do is check the power supply to the router. Check the outlet and make sure that there’s no issue with the power.
Overheating: Is the motor getting excessively hot? This could be a sign of overheating due to prolonged use, a dull bit, or poor ventilation. Let the motor cool down and check for obstructions in the ventilation ports.
Worn Brushes: Router motors often have carbon brushes that wear down over time. If the motor is running erratically or not at all, check the brushes. Replace them if they’re worn to the minimum length.
Faulty Switch: The power switch may be malfunctioning. Test the switch with a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the switch if it’s faulty.
Professional Help: If you’ve exhausted all other troubleshooting steps and the motor still isn’t working correctly, it may be time to consult a qualified repair technician.

By systematically troubleshooting common issues, you can keep your Craftsman router table running smoothly and producing professional-quality results. Remember, a little maintenance and attention can go a long way in preventing problems and extending the life of your router table.

Warranty and Support: Understanding Your Coverage

Alright, you’ve just bought a Craftsman router table, and you’re probably itching to start making sawdust fly. But before you do, let’s talk about something nobody really wants to think about: what happens if something goes wrong? That’s where the warranty and support come in – your safety net in the world of woodworking!

Understanding the Warranty: Your Peace of Mind

Let’s be real, warranties can seem like they’re written in another language. But here’s the gist: Craftsman, like most reputable brands, offers a warranty on their router tables to protect you from manufacturing defects. This means if something goes wrong due to a flaw in the materials or workmanship, they’ve got your back.

However, it’s super important to actually read the warranty document that came with your router table! (I know, I know, nobody actually does that, but trust me on this one). It will outline:

The length of the warranty period: This is how long you’re covered. It can vary depending on the specific model of your Craftsman router table.
What’s covered: Usually, it covers defects in materials and workmanship.
What’s NOT covered: This is the fine print. Generally, warranties don’t cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or damage caused by accidents.
How to make a claim: This outlines the process for getting your router table repaired or replaced if something goes wrong.
So, dig out that manual, find the warranty information, and give it a once-over. It’s boring, but it’s better to be prepared!

Accessing Replacement Parts: Keeping Things Running Smoothly

Okay, so maybe your router table is out of warranty, or maybe you just need to replace a worn-out part. No problem! Craftsman parts are generally pretty easy to come by. Here’s how to find them:

Craftsman Website: Start with the source! The official Craftsman website (if applicable in your region) is a great place to find replacement parts. You can usually search by model number.
Sears PartsDirect: Since Craftsman was a Sears brand for many years, Sears PartsDirect is still a great place to find parts for older models.
Amazon/eBay: These online marketplaces can be goldmines for finding both new and used Craftsman router table parts. Just be sure to check the seller’s reputation before you buy!
Local Hardware Stores: Don’t forget your local hardware store! They may carry some common replacement parts or be able to order them for you.

Pro Tip: When ordering replacement parts, always have your router table’s model number handy. This will ensure you get the correct part.

Having a good understanding of your router table’s warranty and how to find replacement parts will make it easier to enjoy your Craftsman router table and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

So, there you have it! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the world of woodworking, a Craftsman router table combo could be a game-changer. Happy routing, and remember to always prioritize safety!