Always unplug the router when changing cutters or accessories and make sure it is switched off before plugging back in. Only use good quality bits that are kept sharp and clean and properly fitted into the collet. Make sure the work is securely clamped in place before you approach it with the router.
For the best grip, a router bit should be fully inserted into the collet and then backed out about 1/16″ (leaving between 3/4″ and 1″ of the shaft in the collet).
Feed the router with a uniform speed. Feeding too slowly will cause the bit to burn the wood while going too fast will result in rough cuts and excessive wear. 16. Unplug the electric before making adjustments to the router or before inserting bits.
To change the collet, unscrew the nut and collet and remove it from the spindle. Push out the collet from the nut and press in the new collet until it snaps in place. Screw the nut and collet onto the spindle, but keep it loose enough to insert the replacement router bit.
For larger bits, loosen the chuck by hand until the bit fits inside the chuck. For smaller bits, tighten the chuck by hand until the bit sits centered between the jaws. Tighten the chuck onto the bit as much as possible by hand before placing the key in the chuck.
Always feed the wood the opposite direction of how the bit is turning. In general, this means: Feed counterclockwise on a router table with the bit facing downward.
Change your router's default settings.
Change the default administrative username, password, and network name to something unique. Don't use login names or passwords with your name, address, or router brand.
Your router is only as good as the router bit attached to it. If that bit is dull, the quality of your work will suffer. If you start to notice imprecision in your router cuts, it's probably time to sharpen the bits.
I take very good care of my router bits. I clean them after every use with pitch remover and lubricate the bearings with WD-40.
Sand the edge of boards before routing them so the guide bearing will ride on a smooth surface. If you don't, irregularities in the edge on the board will be transferred to the routed shape.
---Probably the most common cause of burning is too slow of a feed rate. Even a slight pause as you reach an inside corner or reposition your hands on the stock can often cause burning. 2. Reduce the router bit RPM.
The frequency of sharpening depends on how often you use your router bit and the type of material you cut. Generally, router bits used for woodworking should be sharpened every 10-20 hours of use, while bits used for cutting metal or plastics should be sharpened every 2-3 hours of use.
When routing in the “normal” direction on a router table (from right to left), the cutting edges of the bit remove material from the workpiece as they exit the cut. As a result, the bit tends to chip fibers along the edge of the workpiece.
The collet or bit is damaged and the collet cannot tighten properly around the bit. It's possible you've overtightened the collet in the past, but collets can also wear out with use over time. The collet and/or bit shank needs to be cleaned.
Never climb cut unless a power feeder is used to control the workpiece, or the depth of cut is 1/32” or less and the workpiece is captured by hold downs and feather boards. 7. Match the router speed to the diameter of the cutter. Full speed can be used for bits up to 1” diameter.