Router problem

[Cubsfan]

Sort of a router problem anyway. More of a me problem

So, I have the Hitachi M12VC set with the fixed and plunge bases. I also have a Rockler router table. Anyway, long story short, I had the fixed base in the router table, and for whatever reason, the screws that hold the base to the plate are amazingly tight in there now. I got one out, but, sadly, I seem to have damaged the head on the other two, so even if the screws weren't tight I'm not sure if I could get them out.

Anyway, a couple of questions:
- Any thoughts on how to get the screws out?
- Any thoughts on how to keep this sort of thing from happening again?

I figure at this point my best option is to put the other screw back in and leave the fixed base in the router table all the time. I can get a new fixed base for like $70, or a reconditioned fixed base M12VC for $80, so I may do that and just leave one in the router table all the time.

[gsmittle]

One alternative (besides leaving the router in the table) would be to drill off the screw heads, then use vise grips to unscrew the remainder of the screw from the router base.

Or drill out the screws completely, then tap the holes for a bigger screw.

What about heating the base with a heat gun until the screws break loose?

Did you maybe put some LockTite on the screws when you installed the router base? Maybe it was the vibration of the running router that tightened the screws.

g.

[dewi1219]

I've had limited success with the EZ-out type screw extractors. They generally require patience to work correctly, which isn't my strong point.

I believe the reconditioned M12VC is out of stock at reconditioned sales - I've been following it for a long time and get the weekly emails saying it is still out of stock. However, my local Lowe's has new M12VCs on clearance right now for $89.

[d_meister]

I work on boats every day, and stainless screws that have become "theft proof" from the phillips recess becoming rounded or stripped are an everyday thing. I use the Alden Grabit all the time, it it has never failed to either turn the screw out.
It works:
http://www.aldn.com/Pages/grabitPro.php

[os1kne]

You've already got some great responses, but if you have access to an impact driver - you might want to give that a try. Often, just a quick touch of the impact is enough to break it loose. I've also had good luck with the other alternatives (heat, screw extractor).

Good luck!

[cork58]

I have used the Alden Grabit and the Drill Out. Of the 2 the Alden Grabit is by far the better. Sometimes the screw comes out before it grabs it it. The left hand drill kind of grabs the screw by itself.

[Black wallnut]

Try in this order:

1. A few taps on the screwdriver handle while trying to turn
2. heat
3. impact driver
4. left hand drill bit
5. all in one extractor

[pelligrini]

Make sure your screwdriver or driver bit isn't worn. A fresh driver bit can make a big difference.

[Cubsfan]

Thanks for all the help! Never thought about heat. In addition to that, it's been sitting in my cold garage quite a bit. I'll give that a shot. If that doesn't work I'm thinking that just getting a new base/router combo wouldn't be all that bad. Would be kinda nice to have a router I could just leave in the table, or even a second router to not have to worry about changing bits at time.

Thanks again for the help!

[JimD]

Black Walnut's list is very good. The left hand drill bit has the potential to remove the screw with little effort. If not, you tap new threads. The base is probably aluminum so tapping threads is easy. A tap and bit set are pretty cheap.

Also a good excuse for a cordless impact driver. It is often surprising what an impact driver will move that plain force will not.

Jim