Table Saw Router Insert Makes Life So Easy

[-MIKE-]

I shared the pics of the router table extension I made for my table saw several years back.

But I never realized how convenient this is until having to do some router work without it, a few weeks ago.

I made a quick video of some rabbet cutting I did for the shelves I'm making. Using the table saw and its rip guide really makes the job quick and easy. I don't need a separate router table anymore so it really frees up space in the shop. If you have a tight shop and need a router table, consider this set-up if you have a decent sized table saw. x

[DerbyDad03]

+1

I added a router table to my table saw a few months ago. That was a substantial upgrade to my small shop. I used to set up a portable router table on my workbench. What a pain to set up, take down, store, etc.

I added the router table extension and then went on Craigslist, eBay, etc. looking for a extra base for my PC 690 router. That's when I found a complete 690 router at a local pawn shop. Practically brand new. $80 for the router and an almost brand new DeWalt ROS. That router is now dedicated to the router table.

I've used that router table more times in the last few months than I used the portable table in the last few years. When it's always available, you find uses for it.

[DerbyDad03]

I forgot to ask...

Why didn't you center your insert?

[-MIKE-]

I assume you're referring to the placement of the router to the front and back of the table. Good question. I originally had it the same distance from the front as the table-saw blade. But then I figured that I was always leaning forward on the tables saw when feeding stock through the blade.

Also, given the fact that I am often cutting smaller pieces on the router, I just wanted more control and a more upright position when using the router.

I also considered the fact that the most important area for support on the saw or router was on the out-feed side where you can't reach when using the saw or router. Since I have a long out-feed table, I decided to move the router a bit forward.

This meant that I could control small pieces with comfort and control. And if I had longer pieces, they would be supported on the out-feed end, while I could always use a roller support on the in-feed side, while maintaining physical control with my hands.

[DerbyDad03]

I see. The difference with mine is that I stand on the *side* of the table when using the router, therefore it is centered in the extension. I would have cut that rabbet by moving the board from the left to right, not by pushing it away from me like when using the table saw.

I gotta admit, I've never seen a router table used in that manner, but with the fence on the right and the feather boards stuck to the table, it makes sense. I've got some rabbets to cut soon and I might just try that out.

[-MIKE-]

It just makes sense to me to use it in the same way I would use thew saw blade, especially considering I'm using the saw's rip fence.

When I'm using a bearing guided bit, I just set up wherever gives me the most control... which comes back to my decision to keep the router positioned more fore than aft. I can be on any aide of the bit. Whatever gives me the most comfort and control.

One must also consider the rotation of the bit when deciding where to set up for feeding the stock.

[Leon]

I would have done that years ago but the way I work I would need to clear off the extension to cut a wide board or to use the router. I would need a small table to put that stuff on. Soooo I have a dedicated router table to put that stuff on. ;~)

Good Job Mike!

[-MIKE-]

LOL! Yeah, don't make me post a picture of what is supposed to be my workbench. :-(

[Bob La Londe]

I bought one of the "cheap" cast iron bolt on leaf router mounts, and its pretty darn handy. Sometimes for simple tasks like putting a round over on the edge of awards plaques I'll just pinch the boards between the saw fence and the router fence. I get the router fence just right, and adjust the saw fence as needed. Its faster than using my CNC router for that, because I don't have to make all the pieces perfect width before I start. Just adjust on the fly, and all the round overs come out looking the same.

[DerbyDad03]

I just set up my router table extension to cut some rabbets the way you did in your video. The boards are about 55" long and pushing them between the fence and the feather boards will be easier than hand feeding them "across" the router like I was going to do.

Test cuts tonight, real cuts this weekend.

Thanks for posting that tip.

[-MIKE-]

Cool! Please let me know how it turns out.