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Hello this is my first post although I've owned my BT3000 for a number of years now. The saw came with a router (1/4" collet) and mounting kit which I never mounted. I've used both separately. I now want to tongue and groove 1 by (3/4") clear pine and all the quality T&G bits are 1/2" shanks. Can someone recommend a good quality router with 1/2" collet that will mount to the BT3000 accessory table?
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unfortunately the BT3 router table was drilled exclusively for the Ryobi routers and some of the Craftsman routers that were made by Ryobi for Craftsman badging.
That doesn't stop you from using any of the very good routers like the Bosch 1617EVS, Dewalt 618, Porter Cable 86x routers (I think these all share the same mounting hole pattern BTW).
You're going to have to do some drilling of holes, but its relatively easy in aluminum. Remove the plastic scuff plate of your router and use it as a template for the hole pattern. Carefully mark the center of each hole location (3 places) and dimple with a center punch to prevent the bit walking. Use a sharp twist bit and preferably a drill press to drill the hole, then countersink the top of the plate (opposite side of the countersinks for the four screws that hold the router Mtg plate to the Auxiliary table) for flat head screws.
It might help if you start the drill with a smaller bit in the center of the dimple, then enlarge the hole with the final bit size.
Worst come to worst, If you screw up, rotate the plate a few degrees and make another set of holes.
There's more BT3 related router mounting instructions and tips and router recommendations in my FAQ (see sig line below).Last edited by LCHIEN; 04-05-2011, 07:41 PM.
Loring in Katy, TX USA
If your only tool is a hammer, you tend to treat all problems as if they were nails.
BT3 FAQ - https://www.sawdustzone.org/forum/di...sked-questions -
Could always use the saw if you don't want to invest in a router right now.Comment
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I think you are going in the right direction by looking at the 1/2 in router and router bits. I use my 1/2 in router with 1/2 bits about 4 to 1 over my 1/4. And the strength and mass of the 1/2 is far superior in heavy routing.Hank Lee
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you wanted!
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This is what I had to do for my Bosch.
Word of caution, though. It was a long time ago, but one day, the screws
holding the Bosch to the plate backed out probably from vibration and the
whole router fell on the floor WITH the bit still running. Luckily it didn't get
me and the mobile base was wood and not metal so no damage to my bit. I
ended up replacing the Bosch screws with longer ones that went through the
base, and then I used a locking star washer with a nut so it couldn't happen
again. Maybe Locktite on the original nut would suffice.
Definitely another way to go if you already have a dado set and don't want
to spend any more money.Comment
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When I used my accessory table, I drilled the mounting plate for my Hitachi KM12VC fixed base. It rocks...Please like and subscribe to my YouTube channel. Please check out and subscribe to my Workshop Blog.Comment
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Just about any router's sub-base can be easily adapted to fit the BT router table. Variable speed is a worthwhile feature to seek out. The Hitachi M12VC is a nice router that's often on sale at good prices. The new Craftsman routers are getting good marks from users, and are often favorably priced too.Happiness is sort of like wetting your pants....everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth.
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YMMV, but I've used the MLCS T&G 1/4" bits with great success in my PC router on the BT3000. The secret is not to force things too fast.
http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/order...ue_groove.html==========
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Green Gables: A Contemplative Companion to Fujino TownshipComment
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