Pros and Cons of router.

[Jim]

I have been running my WD1 for a year or so with a Bosch Colt router at about 16,000 rpm. It has finally died and I'm wondering if there would be any advantage to switching to a Porter Cable model 6902 which I have on hand. The Porter Cable has a fixed speed of 23,000 rpm and I'm wondering how the increased speed will affect my carving. Any comments at all will be greatly appreciated.

Jim

[avwoodworking]

I'm using a Dewalt DWP611, variable up to 27k rpm. Seems to have no issues and can tackle whatever I've been able to throw at it so far. I'm using high end bits (4 flute mostly) and seems to have no perceptible vibrations or chatter using a precise bits collet.

[Jim]

Appreciate your comments. What speed do you normally use and why did you have to replace the collet?

[greggarriss]

I've been using the Colt trim routers on my WD1 for about 5 years now. For the first two years, I was replacing the routers about every 9 - 10 months. They're usually in stock at HD and at $100 each, not too painful for a consumable. But I've autopsied a few. Most of the "failures" have been just worn out brushes which are easily replaced for under $2. Now I just keep a few brush replacement kits handy for my collection of spare routers.

Replacing the Colt stock collet with a Precise Bits collet ( www.thinktink.com/ ) greatly reduces run out and allows me to use tiny ( .015" diameter )carbide endmills.

I always cut the same material for my work and have the router max'ed out but the feed adjusted. If I change to a new material, I usually run feed/speed trials to find the sweet spot to work in.