Shopsmith Forums

I did a search and didn't find the answer. Everything on the internet suggests I want to buy one but doesn't really tell me what it does. Why can't I just use a drill bit or some other 1/2 or 1/4 device to center the router? Usually I can do my own research and figure things out but this one has me stumped.

If you have a 1/4" or 1/2" guide bushing and a drill bit will ft into your router collet, I see no reason why you cannot center your router plate with these parts. This is assuming all the other guide bushings are also perfectly centered.

Question is, is there slop in the bushing mounting? I agree with Charlese, but would use a straight shank 'rod' rather than a drill bit. That does not help get other larger bushings centered however, and a centering gizmo that fits into the router collet and has a tapered end to center the bushings on would be useful for those larger bushings.


IMHO a tight fitting bushing will not need a centering gizmo. I just wish mine were so!!!;)

Centering pins come in various forms. In most cases you will have a reason to want one, two or more types. I personally have a several different styles and use them often. You may find you really don't need one or find that a single type will be all you need. For the most part these are not expensive items and well worth the money spent. If you got more time them money go for a home made version but it will take effort to make it as precise as even a cheap "store bought" one.

The object of use is to center the router shaft to the bushings or sub-base of your router. This is critical when using either the sub-base or the guide bushing/template to control the location of the cut. You want them concentric and they normally do not come that way out of the box. Some router now come standard with one form or another of a centering tool.

I've done various posts here on the subject so if you do some searching and adding "reible" you might find some more details. If you need extra help and pictures let me know and I'll see what I can do to address those questions.

Ed

Just go get one. They are not really expensive. After you have had it in the shop (and used it some), you will realize just how helpful it is to have. You will not regret having done this.