Router Problem - What next?

[Classic Finn]

Several Years ago I bought a Black n Decker router. Cost was about 149 Euro. Now for the 3rd time the black base has cracked. Brought it back to the dealer and they offered to give me a new one. However I was so mad that I just said give me a refund and you can have it.

Right out of the box and the wife and I saw the same thing. Base cracked right by the center.

Id really like to buy another however what kind would you suggest? Id like a small one that has the ergonomically shaped handles.

Are plunge routers good? Ive seen some nice, small but powerful routers in photos used by folks here on the forum but again maybe you can tell me or suggest a good one.

We have Bosch, Makita, and many of the brands you have there in North America. May not be the exact same model but close.

[GreatPumpkin]

I've had a "Skil" brand plunge router that I have had for close to 10 years? It has worked well for me. It recently developed a crack in one of the handles, so I used that as an excuse, er.. good reason, to buy myself a new one.

I found a great deal on a Sears Craftsman in November for $79.99. (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00917543000P) It comes with both a fixed base and a plunge base. Too be honest, I rarely have had need for the plunge function, but I really like the ease of adjustment with the plunge (Skil) vs the fixed base.

[aggie79]

I have a fixed-base Porter-Cable, a Milwaukee with fixed and plunge bases, and Harbor Freight palm routers. As the song goes, "two out of three ain't bad." I really like my Porter-Cable and Milwaukee routers, so I'd recommend them. I also have a few Bosch tools and like Bosch too.

It's a little more money, but I'd consider a router with two bases - fixed and plunge.

[toypusher]

Heikki,

You should be able to get a non B&D replacement base for it. Especially if that is the only problem.

Tryhere: http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite ... tacc2.html

Her's another one: http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=19741

[satch]

Don't mean to p.o. anyone, but you couldn't give me a BD router.
I like the durability of Porter Cable. I understand BD,Skil are cheaper, but if I'm operating a tool that's spinning a bit at over 20Gs, I want some thing more reliable. Anytime I buy a pwer tool, I look for the ones with less plastic. JMO

[toypusher]

Don't mean to p.o. anyone, but you couldn't give me a BD router.
I like the durability of Porter Cable. I understand BD,Skil are cheaper, but if I'm operating a tool that's spinning a bit at over 20Gs, I want some thing more reliable. Anytime I buy a pwer tool, I look for the ones with less plastic. JMO

I had a B&D that lasted me over 20 years. Not saying that I would recommend one now, though. I have both Porter Cable and DeWalt routers now.

[S. Heisley]

I used to love anything Black & Decker; but, since DeWalt bought them out, B&D seems to have become the bottom of the Dewalt line and doesn't seem to be very good anymore. ...Just one more sad merger story.

I didn't know that Skil isn't very good.

[rwelp]

I used to love anything Black & Decker; but, since DeWalt bought them out, B&D seems to have become the bottom of the Dewalt line and doesn't seem to be very good anymore. ...Just one more sad merger story.

I didn't know that Skil isn't very good.

Actually Black and Decker bought Dewalt, Delta, and Porter Cable. Dewault used to be top of the line, however I prefer Porter Cable. I have a Porter Cable plunge/fixed base that is my go to router. Just my opinion.
Rob Welp

[satch]

Don't mean to p.o. anyone, but you couldn't give me a BD router.
I like the durability of Porter Cable. I understand BD,Skil are cheaper, but if I'm operating a tool that's spinning a bit at over 20Gs, I want some thing more reliable. Anytime I buy a pwer tool, I look for the ones with less plastic. JMO

I had a B&D that lasted me over 20 years. Not saying that I would recommend one now, though. I have both Porter Cable and DeWalt routers now.

Back in the day, I'm sure they were better. Now, I put my tools through some tasks. Not a good feeling having it blow in the middle of a job.

[GreatPumpkin]

Don't mean to p.o. anyone, but you couldn't give me a BD router.
I like the durability of Porter Cable. I understand BD,Skil are cheaper, but if I'm operating a tool that's spinning a bit at over 20Gs, I want some thing more reliable. Anytime I buy a pwer tool, I look for the ones with less plastic. JMO

I found the Skil Router to be very reliable, it lasted me somewhere around 14 years. I bought it at a time that was all I could afford. When I could afford to upgrade, I saw no reason to as it worked fine for all the abuse I put it through over the years.

I feel almost the same about Harbor Freight power tools. Almost, because I'm not too proud if someone wanted to give me one, but I probably wouldn't buy one. (Although I have considered their small trim router to use on plam.) I do shop there frequently, just not the power tools. On second thought, I have bought one - the 4-1/2" angle grinder. Bought it 9 years ago, and it worked great up until this year when I carelessly turned and cut right through the power cable I replaced it with a Black & Decker. Not one of those tools that need a high price replacement, just one to get the job done.

That being said though, I know there are many on this forum that uses them. To each his own, within their financial ability. I've owned or own most of the tool brands listed here - and others not listed. If the tool is junk, I don't own it for long. Skil and Black & Decker may be "lesser" brands to pros and those who depend on tools to make their living, but they are of sufficient quality for the average homeowner/user that probably makes up the majority of the users on this forum.

[doug hodder]

I've got a variety of extra bases that I attach for different techniques. Make one up out of some 1/4" baltic birch and attach it. With a wooden one, you can install screws for small radaii routing, or a straight piece to act as a fence. Recently I attached a couple of rollers to allow me to rout the slot for the ceiling on the sides of the new trailer. If it gets trashed...make another. I don't know on the B&D but the porter cables have 3 screws to remove the base. If the motor is still good and it's a working router, modify it to suit your needs. It beats buying a new router. Doug

[Juneaudave]

We had a similar thread in November entitled "Which Router Do you Use and Why"!!! Not that anybody would have an opinion on something like that...

[Micro469]

We had a similar thread in November entitled "Which Router Do you Use and Why"!!! Not that anybody would have an opinion on something like that...

I didn't see that thread, so I'll put my two cents worth in here. I have a sears router which I liked, but cracked the base when i dropped it and can't get a replacement. Had an old B&D professional from the sixties, and when the bearings wore out sent it in to be fixed.... too old, so they replaced it with a Dewalt for $35.00. It has a fixed base, but you can also get a plunge base for it. (which I don't have yet.) I love this router, works great. Also like the Bosch router, woud buy one if I needed a second router.
If I had the money...and needed a REALLY GOOD router, I might even buy a Triton.....

Hope that's clear as mud......

[Looneytoons]

I just got this Bosch router for Christmas. Sorry but it was $193.00 in December.

I did a lot of research and this was one of the best rated "combos". It's worked great so far as long as do my part.

[asianflava]

I just got this Bosch router for Christmas. Sorry but it was $193.00 in December.

I did a lot of research and this was one of the best rated "combos". It's worked great so far as long as do my part.

I have the same combo. I think you should be OK with Bosch or Porter Cable.