Setting up BT31k for Routering

[charger1966]

Hey, I'm setting up my BT31k to router. I bought a new inexpensive plunge router and have it all mounted. My question is , Should I remove the springs from it? And Will I be able to to Raised panels with it? Let me know what you think please.
Thanks
Lance


If I can't fix it , it aint broke!

[LarryG]

Lance,

Removing the springs is optional; some do, some don't. With them removed you won't have to fight them when adjusting the bit height ... how big an issue this is depends on the strength of the springs, as some are quite stiff (Hitachi, Makita, P-C 69x series) and others are pretty light and silky (Bosch, DeWalt).

Panel-raising bits are typically large in diameter, and massive, which means you need a variable-speed router because it's dangerous to run them at a router's typical full speed of ~25K RPM. Another problem is that they are often too big to fit through the hole in the BT's accessory table (which I'm assuming is where you have your router mounted). If you have a VS router and the bit is small enough to fit through the hole, you're good to go.

If not, another option is a vertical panel raising bit, which turns the panel profile 90deg and thus makes the bit taller but smaller in diameter. With these, the workpiece is fed past the bit standing on edge against the fence, rather than laying flat on the table. These bits are small enough to fit through the hole in the acc'y table. Some of them are still a bit too large to run wide-open, though, so you'd still need variable speed.

[scorrpio]

Routers that have 'above table' adjustment feature don't need springs removed - but if your's does not, removing springs will probably make height adjustment easier.

Far as raised panels go, there are two things: speed and power. Large panel bits need a lot of power. 3HP is recommended, though some 2.25HP routers work out fine. For speed, you need to be ble to drop router speed to about 11000-14000RPM. If your router is not variable speed, you'll need to get a speed control.
Finally, larger diameter bits might have problems with BT3's mounting hole - they are too large for it. Keep that in mind when buying bits.

[LCHIEN]

Routers that have 'above table' adjustment feature don't need springs removed - but if your's does not, removing springs will probably make height adjustment easier.

Far as raised panels go, there are two things: speed and power. Large panel bits need a lot of power. 3HP is recommended, though some 2.25HP routers work out fine. For speed, you need to be ble to drop router speed to about 11000-14000RPM. If your router is not variable speed, you'll need to get a speed control.
Finally, larger diameter bits might have problems with BT3's mounting hole - they are too large for it. Keep that in mind when buying bits.

Larry and Scorrpio - both excellent responses.

[crokett]

Some good answers on the router and speed but one more thing -

If the bit is too big to fit through the hole in the acc table it is possible to mount the bit in the router after the router is in the table. A bit tight space wise but it works. You can also add a sacrificial piece of 1/4 MDF or ply to the table top so you can lower the bit down flush with this top and not catch the aluminum.

[charger1966]

Router set up

Well I did it. I got the BT31k set up with the router today. I actually did some raised panels on it. It took some time to teach myself the best way to do it but I did it. Then I made my duaghter a new table for her room at college. Some but nice. It's all MDF let over from another project. I'm painting it now. So Thank you for all the info it was truely helpfull.
Lance