router table question

[chief rock]

Does anyone know if rigids 2 1/4 router can accept the bit extenders available on the market? I am having trouble getting the bits through thetable far enough.

[hewood]

Any router that'll accepts a 1/2" shank should be able to accept the extenders.

That said, it's worth noting that the length of the extenders can amplify any runout increasing vibration, and will also increase the lateral pressure at the spindle. I tried the $25 MLCS extender and didn't really like the results, but it did add the desired length.

[chief rock]

I already have a problem heywood. I have to leave the bit almost halfway out of the shaft to get the cutting portion above the table. The extender has to be better than that http://www.ridgidforum.com/forum/images/icons/icon9.gif The one I am looking at is the "Eliminator"
from Woodworker sup., it replaces the old collet and nut and costs about twice what you mentioned. I know that isn't a guarentee of quality but it also has four models specific to brands. They list PC, DW, BOSH, ELU and FREUD but NO RIGID I feel like hollering discrimination or something!

[Woussko]

CR About how much longer of a shank would you like your router bits to have so you can fully insert them into the collet? I have an idea that if you don't need too much extension that some company may well make long shank router bits. I do know that people with other brands (Milwaukee and PC) routers use them with tabels (not sure just what brand-model) with stock bits and don't seem to have problems. Can you borrow another router or try your's in a different table?

[chief rock]

Thought of that, but I really like the rigid. One problem might be the base mounts under one inch melamine, could gain 3/4 by using 1/4" plate. I don't think there is a source for longer shanks, at least I have never seen any.

[papadan]

CR, that is the problem. You need to use a router plate set into your tabletop. A google search will get you tons of them to choose from. You will cut out a hole in the top and router an edge to set the plate onto. That will solve your problem completely.

[chief rock]

I believe you are right Papa, I knew a router lift would do it but the reason I chose the rigid was no requirement for a lift. I thought I could do without the plate though, oh well (big sigh)

[papadan]

I can't recommend a plate, I use a Mast-R-Lift with a PC 7518 router motor. I am sure others here can tell you about the different plates available.