Craftsman router on a Kreg table

[Pesi Unwalla]

I have an old, Craftsman router (removed from its old Craftsman router table) which I am trying to install on my new Kreg Benchtop router table.

Everything else is fine except for 1 issue - the base of the collet stays a 1/4" below the surface of the table insert - which means that I cannot expose the full cutting edge of the bits to the pieces being routed.

I did check the router repeatedly to see if the raise-lower mechanism was somehow not working but that seems to raise the bit as far up as it will go. (And yes, I did remove the router base plate before screwing it onto the table insert) - Even in the fully raised position, part of the bit remains well below the table top.

I'm wondering if this is a function of the Craftsman router or if even other makes will have the same problem on a Kreg table (?)

[KregCS]

Pesi,

Unfortunately it appears that your router does not have enough of a travel distance to completely raise it above the table due to the increase in the thickness of our plate. Some other models, including some Porter Cable variations, have this same issue you are referring to. Sadly there is not an option to correct this, as we do not offer different plate thicknesses in order to retain the rigidity of the insert plate. If you have any other questions, please contact our Technical Support at 800-447-8638 for assistance. 

[Pesi Unwalla]

I called tech support and they were only able to recommend 2 routers (Bosch 1617 & Triton TRA001) - both of which are a bit too expensive for me. Its odd that Kreg does not support a wider range of routers. Do you have any other recommendations for more affordable routers under $199 Cdn that would work as I'd hate to have to return the table.

[KregCS]

Pesi,

Unfortunately due to the large number of routers that are on the market we do not have a list of ones that will work with our table like you are referring to.  Since there are a wide variety of uses and applications for routers we do not like to recommend one as it may not fit the use you are looking for.  The best option would be to bring your insert plate with you to your local hardware store or the bit and see if the models that they offer would raise high enough for the application you are looking at. 

[Pesi Unwalla]

Good suggestion - maybe I'll do just that.

Thanks.