New Owner of a Mark V 510 with some questions

[WoodFrog]

I am also a noob here. I just picked up one of these Shopsmith Mark V router tables, #555658, and have some questions. I have a Porter Cable model 1002 w/ 1001 fixed base that I wanted to mount in it.

EDIT: I returned the #555658 I got, it was damaged on arrival. See my new post in "General Woodworking" where I built my own table!

1. Is the PC 1002 big enough for under table routing? It is 6.5 amps, so about 1 HP.

2. How will the router mount to the table? Do I use the 1001 base or do I need to get a router lift? If so, what would you recommend? Something that would accommodate a larger router if I needed would be nice.

Cheers,

Woodfrog

[DLB]

1) Power needs depend on how you will use it. Most people mount a more powerful router for under table use. I would suggest one that has at least 1/2 and 1/4 inch collets to give flexibility to your choices for bits. And in the 11 - 12 Amps and up range. Some routers have special features for under table mounting. I use a Bosch which allows depth adjustment from above the table. I think Triton, and probably others, have something similar.

2) Generally - you remove your sub-base (aka plate) from your router's fixed base, typically mounted with three or four short machine screws from the bottom. Then you mount the fixed base to the bottom of the router plate using the same holes. They often require longer screws. Sometimes the router plate is pre-drilled for your router. If it is not, you can use the sub-base as a drilling guide.

A router lift is a great, but optional, feature. I'm not aware of one that fits my SS table, which is a different version. You may need to resize the table opening. Templates are available. I have also considered removing the router lift hardware and re-hosting it onto the SS plate, but I have not tried it. Some lifts, maybe all, only fit specific models of routers.

-David

[WoodFrog]

Wonderful information, thanks David!

Woodfrog