I wanted a small (1-HP) plunge router with good dust collection. My choices were limited: The Trend T4 (available for $80 to $130 depending on where you find it).
[Link to Trend T4 router]
Of course, I went with the T4.
The T4 is the replacement to the T3. The T4 adds a more powerful (850-watts instead of 500-ish watts). It also adds a spindle lock and a couple of other improvements. It is variable speed (though I think the T3 was as well).
One thing they didn't address (or didn't get right) was the plunge action. I've read that the T3 had some play in the plunge (I've never tried one). I figured maybe they'd fix this in the T4, but it could be better.
I should note that when locked, the bit is perfectly square to the base. The problem really seems to be between the posts and the bushings (only one of which seems to have a steel insert--kinda weird) and only while plunging.
Now, I could return the router and get something else. But like I said, there are really no other products that fit all my needs. For $99, I'm happy to make some adjustments.
Anyway, I took it apart and figured I'd investigate options to tightening the action up. My thought is to spread a very thin layer of epoxy mixed with graphite powder (in a 10:1 mixture), to the insides of the bushings. I'd do this towards the top and bottom of both the left and right bushings. I figure I can take my time and start with minuscule amounts and build it until it is "just right."
I've never attempted anything like this before (well that isn't entirely true, I modifiy many of my tools). I do know that graphite mixed with epoxy is often used as an emergency bearing surface for field repairs. It is quite slick and very durable. And I wouldn't even be asking that much of it (no rotation, just sliding).
But perhaps I'm overlooking another simpler solution (and don't suggest returning it, I'm committed to making this one better).
Any thoughts?
[Link to Trend T4 router]
Of course, I went with the T4.
The T4 is the replacement to the T3. The T4 adds a more powerful (850-watts instead of 500-ish watts). It also adds a spindle lock and a couple of other improvements. It is variable speed (though I think the T3 was as well).
One thing they didn't address (or didn't get right) was the plunge action. I've read that the T3 had some play in the plunge (I've never tried one). I figured maybe they'd fix this in the T4, but it could be better.
I should note that when locked, the bit is perfectly square to the base. The problem really seems to be between the posts and the bushings (only one of which seems to have a steel insert--kinda weird) and only while plunging.
Now, I could return the router and get something else. But like I said, there are really no other products that fit all my needs. For $99, I'm happy to make some adjustments.
Anyway, I took it apart and figured I'd investigate options to tightening the action up. My thought is to spread a very thin layer of epoxy mixed with graphite powder (in a 10:1 mixture), to the insides of the bushings. I'd do this towards the top and bottom of both the left and right bushings. I figure I can take my time and start with minuscule amounts and build it until it is "just right."
I've never attempted anything like this before (well that isn't entirely true, I modifiy many of my tools). I do know that graphite mixed with epoxy is often used as an emergency bearing surface for field repairs. It is quite slick and very durable. And I wouldn't even be asking that much of it (no rotation, just sliding).
But perhaps I'm overlooking another simpler solution (and don't suggest returning it, I'm committed to making this one better).
Any thoughts?
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