I just built my router table. I would like to buy a router for my table. I read in the Fine Woodworking #189 article Tool Test: Routers for Router Tables, there was a review of the Triton Router model MOF001KC.
I did like the router because of the ease of changing the bits as well as the handability of the router itself. The only drawback is that the router is only 2.0 horsepower. I read one time that the minimum that I should use is 3.0 hp or 3.5 hp.
Is it better to have more horsepower or is a 2.0 hp router is good?
Is more horsepower more safer?
I don’t have a tablesaw so I will be using the router for a lot of joinery.
Thank you for your reply.
Moataz
Replies
I don't know the model number, but I have the Triton 3.25 HP router in a tablesaw-mounted router table, and love it. You will need a router lift, but you can change bits above the table. The variable speed and soft start is nice, too.
As I recall, it was priced at or below the 2.25 HP model, because of a feature the smaller one had and it didn't, but in my application, it's just right.
kreuzie
Thank you for your reply, I thought you do not need to have a lift for this Trinton router. since you can control it from the top as I read in the article for the 2.00 HP I don't know about the 3.00 HP but I think both are the same with exception of the HP, or I am wrong.
I think that was the feature that the larger one didn't have, so I opted for the greater horsepower, since I had already bought (several years earlier) a lift and auxiliary right-hand table to fit my Powermatic 66.
In my opinion, if you're going to be doing extensive router work, go for the higher HP number. If you use large diameter bits, you'll be glad you did.
The router reviewed is the 2+ hp Triton. It has a crank that allows you to raise the router from above the table. The 3+ Triton doesn't have this crank, so you have to raise it by turning a handle on the router below the table. However it raises quite easily, and you can still change bits from above the table.
I have the 3+ model, but I imagine the 2+ is perfectly adequate for most purposes -- you might have to make more passes when using a large-diameter bit. You should check to see if the Triton will fit under your table. It can be a tight fit if you've divided the space under the tabletop into compartments.
Jim
First, I don't equate hp to safety.
The router you are referring to is 2-1/4 hp. This pulls about 15A at full load. If you are planning on spinning a lot of larger bits them perhaps a 3+hp is a better choice for you. I don't do a lot of this and I can run a few passes if required.
I just bought the 2.25 Triton for installation in a table that I am building. I like the feature of adjusting the height and changing the bits from above the table.
As far as someone recommending 3.5 HP as a starting minimum, this is poor advise. 3 hp is the maximum hp you can run on a standard 20A circuit. If you think you need more than 3 HP, my opinion is you need a shaper.
Greg
•••••••
Exo 35:30-35
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled