Replies

1. 
   Kell | Mar 07, 2005 09:03pm | #1

   Buzz,

   Why be embarrassed?  My Ryobi RE600 is 15 years old and still running although it's my back up router.  Shoot, I've got a 22 year old Craftsman that I still use handheld from time to time.

   As to your question, it depends.  I have one of the new PC routers, it's a sweet unit too, and the mounting holes in it are very specific.  Using your old table will require you to drill 4 new holes for your new router.  Not sure what material your table is so I can't speak to the difficulty of that.

   Good luck!  Nice job on your workbench BTW.  I saw pics a few days ago but didn't have time to comment.

   Kell

1. 
   Buzzsaw | Mar 07, 2005 09:20pm | #2

   Thanks Kell,

     The table is metal.  I'm sure you have seen these router tables at HD.  Not great but better than spending big bucks for a new one or taking the time to build one.  I may look into getting a newer Ryobi that has the same holes. It may be worth it.

     Thanks for the comments on the workbench.  I love it...Regards,

   Buzzsaw

2. 
   Buzzsaw | Mar 08, 2005 08:50pm | #6

   Kell,

     I just checked the Home Depot website and it looks like they sell a 2HP Ryobi plunge router that will probably have holes that fit the router table that I currently have.  I should be able to put the plunge router in the table, correct? It also looks like the dial to change the height of the bit is MUCH better than the version I have (1.5HP version).  That is my biggest complaint.  You have to turn the dial that encompasses the whole router and it is extremely stiff.  I would love to buy a Porter Cable but, for the table that I have, the $99 2HP Ryobi may be the proper purchase.  I can always purchase a Porter Cable at a later date and maybe just use that as my hand-help router.Regards,

   Buzzsaw

1. 
   Kell | Mar 08, 2005 09:37pm | #7

   The Ryobi router at HD now may or may not fit your old table.  Just because it's the same brand doesn't necessarily mean they've used the same dies to make the new ones.  Hold onto the receipt and check it as soon as you get it home.  If it doesn't fit, you can start over.

   Kell

1. 
   Buzzsaw | Mar 08, 2005 09:41pm | #8

   Good point.  I should be able to check it in the store but will keep the receipt.  I like the fact that it is a plunge router as well because I don't have one of those.  It would kill 2 birds with one stone.Regards,

   Buzzsaw

2. 
   RonInOttawa | Mar 09, 2005 06:53am | #12

   Take the base off your current Ryobi router with you to the local HD and check the demonstrator table to see if the screw holes line up. It may save you a trip back to return it!Regards,Ron

2. 
   JsHerbel | Mar 08, 2005 01:01am | #3

   Just thought I'd add that I owned a 3/4 horse Ryobi plunge router from '92 to '02 and it was the only handheld router I used until I dropped it on concrete and bent the base. I couldn't kill that thing, replaced the brushes twice, I think. I'd still be using it if I hadn't dropped it. It was small and easy to maneuver. I don't use a handheld router for mouldings or anything of that nature, so I don't need a ton of power. I can hog out wood a little faster now with the 2.5 hp Bosch I bought in '02, but not alot faster.

   As for fitting a new router to the table, you can make a base plate with countersunk holes drilled that line up to attach to the PC router and then drill holes to match the table. You can make the baseplate of aluminum, phenolic resin, or anything that is fairly rigid.

3. 
   Kent_F | Mar 08, 2005 04:34am | #4

   The PC 690 has three mounting holes (10-24 screws) evenly spaced around a 4 5/8" dia circle.

1. 
   Buzzsaw | Mar 08, 2005 03:15pm | #5

   Thanks Kent (and all) for the information.

    Regards,

   Buzzsaw

4. 
   WillGeorge | Mar 09, 2005 03:39am | #9

   OK I am a little embarrassed to say that I currently own a 1.5HP Ryobi router ..

   WHY???  I have several I use.. And two Ryobi 2 Hp?.. Whatever..

   I hardly ever use my Porter....

1. 
   Buzzsaw | Mar 09, 2005 05:02am | #10

   Will,

     Can you tell me if the holes in the router are the same for the 1.5 as the 2HP?  I want to use the 2HP in the router table that I have.  Don't be embarrassed.  I liked my Ryobi before it fell apart.Regards,

   Buzzsaw

1. 
   WillGeorge | Mar 09, 2005 05:21am | #11

   I do not have the table you have.. I make my own table plates.. Sorry...

   I just stated I like my Ryobi's but I just have the 2 Hp ones..  They do all I want them to do.. No production shop here but used ALL the time.. I even use a 2 1/2 inch DIA. bit in it all the time..  NO I don't force it...

   If I were you.. I'd just take my table to the BigBox and ask the tool shop manager to pull out the router you want and see if it fits.. Surprising what the bigboxes will do if you ask..!!!

    

   EDIT!  Don't be embarrassed..

   I only do that if a pretty Woman smiles at me!

   Edited 3/8/2005 9:22 pm ET by Will George