freud ft1700 router question

[Chuck Hayes]

I am building a new router table to use the incra LS positioner. My current design is using a single 3/4 MDF top with support bracing. The question is, will the FT1700 above table bit change and above table height adjustment work thru a 3/4 inch table, or will I need to get a router plate (In which case I would laminate 2 pieces of 3/4 MDF)? If a router plate is needed, any sugestions on where to find one and/or how to make one?

Thanks
Chuck

[scott spencer]

Hi Chuck - Not sure I can really answer your question. My 1700 is mounted on a plate and the above table features work great with it. 3/4" material will be pushing it a bit (no pun intended :o ).

The height adjustment and lock should still work fine....even if the supplied hex wrench does reach all the way, another hex wrench of the same diameter from a set will work fine. It's the above table bit changes that I think you may struggle with....you'll lose most of the collet nut that protrudes unless you hog out some of the material....which will weaken it. I'd recommend the plate even if it's only to gain the benefit of different sized trim rings.

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000BVB1MO.01.PT02._SS400_SCLZZZZZZZ_V65935245_.jp g

[Chuck Hayes]

Scott;

Thanks for the reply. What plate are you using? Did you drill your own mounting holes for the Freud? The only pre-drilled plate I can find is the large rockler plate, which I will use if it is a good plate.

Chuck

[scott spencer]

Chuck - I bought the Hartville phenolic plate and drilled it myself. I've been pretty happy with it. I liked it well enough to buy a second one for my Milwaukee 5625, so I just pop them in and out to switch routers.

http://www.hartvilletool.com/shared/images/products/medium/88941.JPEG
http://hartvilletool.com/product/11400