PC # 7518 Router Help

[Gary J Belch]

Recently purchased Porter Cable Model 7518 5 speed router. Speeds range from 21000 - 10000rpms.
Is there any speed range chart for use with various types of wood. I thought when I upacked the tool there was speed useage chart but cannot locate it.:(

[Chris Tsutsui]

Shouldn't the speed chart factor in what size bit you are using too?

I guess I'm not too technical but I run it at the fastest speed unless it's a big bit. Then slow it down. (Sorry I'm not much help)

I remember using it with a 1/4" roundover bit on a panel. I couldn't even tell when it began to cut since it didn't even make the motor flinch. heh

BTW, You've got a nice router there!

[Larry Edgerton]

It is about bit sizing more than wood selection. Wood differences are more compensated for by my feed speed.

Start at 1/2" and on the other end figure 3 1/2 inches and divide in 5 equal parts. There is your bit sizing chart.


up to a

1.1" bit 18.8 k or fifth speed

1.7"bit 16.6K or fourth speed

2.3"bit 14.4k or third speed

2.9"bit 12.2k or second speed

Over 2.9 use the slowest.

I just figured this out and it will just be a general guideline, bit quality, wood, feed rate, etc will dictate actual use and you will learn this as time goes by. This will give you a place to start.

[Eduard Nemirovsky]

you can find a better info at http://www.routerforums.com.