BOSCH 1617EVSPK ROUTER(still first choice??)

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Thanks for the info, Jeffrey. I'l give Bosch a call this week on the switch. mine is the magnesium housing and sticking is a problem.

Send it in at one of their authroized repair drop off stations and I bet it comes back with aluminum housing (ie a different router). Happened to me . . . .

[HarmsWay]

Send it in at one of their authroized repair drop off stations and I bet it comes back with aluminum housing (ie a different router). Happened to me . . . .

Does anyone know if that exchange is available in Canada? My 1617 is still probably my favourite power tool, but the magnesium motor housing just seems to oxidize badly. Maybe that's more of an issue at the coast though. I've cleaned and waxed it a couple of times which helps keep it unstuck for a year or so.

Bob

[cgallery]

All the Bosch units on the shelf should now have sealed switch unless you are looking at a router that has been sitting on the shelf for some time. All the Bosch units on the shelf should have the newer style aluminum motor housing instead of the magnesium.

Two out of three of my questions answered before I even asked, thank you!

Third question: How hard is it to change bits on the Bosch when used in a router lift (in a table)? This is pretty easy on my DW618. I can hold the shaft lock with one hand and turn the wrench with the other.

[LarryG]

How hard is it to change bits on the Bosch when used in a router lift (in a table)? This is pretty easy on my DW618.

Assuming the lift will raise the collet clear of the table, it's even easier. The Bosch uses the classic two-wrench system instead of a spindle lock.

[DJehlik]

This site is a pretty good one for router comparisons:
http://www.patwarner.com/

Dave

[Tom Hintz]

Mark,
I also have been using the Bosch 1617 router for years and would have to agree they are either the best or tied with the PC 890 series for the most popular honors. I have both in my shop but use the Bosch more frequently because I just like the feel of it better I guess.I have reviews of the Bosch, PC and a few other brands at the link below if that would help.

http://www.newwoodworker.com/reviews/index.html#routers

[dsb1829]

Got my vote. I did a lot of reading on the combo kits. I have wanted a PC for years, but when it came down to time to purchase I went to a couple of stores and checked out the tools first hand. The Bosch simply felt better to me and I liked the adjustments. Couple that with a Lowe's coupon and it was a done deal, instant gratification. I have only used it a few times so far, but it has been very nice.

[gettools]

Thank yall for your inputs. After reading all the answers i was going to get the Bosch set up, but a friend of mine had a new Dewalt DW618 3 piece kit that he sold to me for $125.00 ( I couldnt pass up for the price ) so far I have been real happy with it

[drumpriest]

That's a great router, you scored big time!

[ironhat]

Yep, ditto that, Keith. I have two and I thought that I did well at $199 on the second one. You smoked any competition! I have one dedicated to my router table (I just can't seem to find time to list the extra bases on E-bay as I promised the wife so that I could recoup some of the expense of a second one) and the other is used for hand held use.