DIY Network

Handsaw Maintenance and Viewer Jig: Router Table From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-213

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Host David Thiel turns a collapsible work stand into a space-saving table.

First, you need to get the correct lift on your particular router. The router slides into the collar of the router lift (figure A). The collar locks into place. Then, the router lift has two guideposts, and a threaded rod that allows the router to move up and down.

The router lift has different insert rings (figure B). The smaller the bit, the smaller the opening in the insert ring. There is a bolt on the top of the router lift, near the insert ring.

You will use a special wrench to turn that bolt (figure C), which in turn will rise and lower the router bit. Raising it all the way up will allow you to get to the bit in order to replace it.

Most router lifts will come with a template to help you cut the right sized hole into your tabletop. Use the template to mark out the area that needs to be cut out.

Start by drilling a hole, and then use a jigsaw to cut out the hole. Use a router with a straight bit to cut a rabbet into the top of the table where the router lift plate will sit (figure D).

Add edge pieces to the tabletop so that they fit over the outside sides of the work stand. Screw two blocks up into the bottom of the table, one on either side of the router lift (figure E). Put the tabletop onto the work stand, and tighten the clamps around the two blocks to keep the tabletop in place.

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