Replies

1. 
   Disputantum | Mar 10, 2008 09:31am | #1

   I tried to use my drill press once as a router (upcut spiral bit), and the bit pulled the chuck out as soon as it touched the work. Haven't tried again. If I ever have trouble getting the chuck out, I know what to do.

   Or do you mean to use the press to hold the pin and have the router mounted underneath?

   ne sutor ultra crepidam:  Disputantum Semirotten Woodworking

   
   

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   Edited 3/10/2008 2:36 am ET by Disputantum

2. 
   MikeHennessy | Mar 10, 2008 01:59pm | #2

   I've tried to use my DP as a router, but it doesn't have the RPMs to get the job done very well. It also generates a lot of chatter. YMMV. Can't hurt to try. I'd just set it up with a bit with a bearing and see if it works well enough for you. If so, go for it.

   Mike Hennessy
   Pittsburgh, PA

3. 
   RickL | Mar 10, 2008 02:51pm | #3

   Bad idea as others have mentioned.  A jacobs taper on the chuck will easily come out. Like to have a spinning cutter in your lap. Some drill presses  had a threaded chuck and it's possible to do  some limited router work but  there is a lot of chatter.

   RPM to low

   These are much better options for a pin router. I've used pin routers  extensively the drill press is a sorry version of a pin router.

   http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=1&p=43039&cat=1,43000

   http://grizzly.com/products/Bench-Top-Overarm-Router/G0587

    

1. 
   Prado | Mar 10, 2008 06:32pm | #4

   ... Well I guess that settles my curiosity.
   However, if the RPMs on a drill press are too low, does that mean that when I have the belt mounted for top speed the RPMs would still be too low?Thanks

1. 
   RickL | Mar 10, 2008 06:36pm | #5

   You can answer your own question by looking at comparable router speeds. 20,000 is typical for a pin router. Most drill presses are 2,000 max, it varies with each manufacturer.

    I will give you bonus points for at least knowing what pin router is.

   Edited 3/10/2008 11:38 am ET by RickL

4. 
   rarebear | Mar 11, 2008 06:48am | #6

   I have a X-Y  table on my DP and thought I could do some light milling but I get way to much vibration as DPs only have one bearing at bottom and top of quill just floats in a loose fit so you have no side to side stability...

    

   Also I dont think your DP can make 10,000 rpm let alone 30,000 :)