How Do You Keep Router Bits Tight?

How Do You Keep Router Bits Tight?

The question I have may sound dumb, but I’m new to the wood working world. When I’m using my router table the bit sometimes works its way up. I was wondering if I am trying to take too much off or could it be my router? I always make sure the bit is as tight as I can get it. I’m at a loss as to what I can do.

Michael Dresdner: Yes, if you take too hefty of a cut with certain types of bits they try to “walk up.” They can either pull the bit out of the collet, or jiggle the router setting upwards. The first step is to find out which is happening. Mark the bit with a sharpie where the shaft enters the collet. That will tell you if the bit itself is slipping in the collet. If so, try cleaning or degreasing the collet and bit with naphtha, and make sure neither is scored. Seat the bit far enough so that the collet faces grab all they can, but don’t bottom the bit out. If the bit is not moving, then it is the router adjustment. Clean it, tighten it, and make sure all mating surfaces are smooth. Finally, use a sharp bit and take modest cuts.

Simon Watts: The wrenches supplied with routers are usually too short to be effective as well as being hard on the hands. I suggest you invest in a couple of open end wrenches of appropriate size.

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