Using the Mark V for Router Operations

[shoedo]

I have no Shopsmith experience but acquired a Mark V 500 and upgraded it to a Mark V 520 table system. I got several router and shaper chucks with my purchase. I presumed that the Mark V was capable of router operations because my purchase included router chucks and router bits. After looking at a comparison of the Mark V and Mark 7 on the Shopsmith website, I am confused. It doesn't reflect that router operations can be carried out using the Mark V. Please explain and thanks in advance.

[DLB]

Both configurations, MV/M5 and M7/PP, have some routing capability. But neither has the speed, in RPMs, of a typical stand-alone router. My router, for example, is variable speed from 8K to 25K RPMs. The MV/M5 max speed is approximately 5.2K, the M7 is 10K. High speed rating for router bits varies widely, generally lower speed for larger diameter. I have a Freud box sitting on my desk and it lists 12K max for 3-1/2 inch diameter bits all the way up to 24K max for 1 inch diameter bits.

So, given the lower cutting speed of the M5/MV one would expect to have to slow down material feed rate considerably compared to a typical router. Each individual has to decide for themselves if they are satisfied with the results. I have both a 1/4 and 1/2 inch chuck for that occasional need, but do almost all of my routing on a router table.

This question will come down to opinion, and they will vary. For me, even thought I would like to take advantage of the 520 table system and jigs I don't like the Mark as a router. I'd sure like to see SS bring back the Mark mounted Over-Arm Router.

- David

[BuckeyeDennis]

One other "bit" of information -- a Mark V can only route in over-table mode, unless you purchase the 'speed increaser" accessory. Those enable under-table routing/shaping bit speeds to 10,000 RPM.

https://www.shopsmith.com/ownersite/faq ... reaser.htm

I've used my Mark V for over-table shaping a time or two, and found it to be pretty competent when using the larger 3-wing shaper bits. But for routing with typical small router bits, I much prefer a router.

[sehast]

Successful routing is dependent on three factors RPM, bit diameter and number of flutes on the bit. At low RPMs the bit diameter and number of flutes need to be maximized. Most router bits 1/2" in diameter or less are designed to operate at 18,000 RPM and have 2 flutes. Increasing the number of flutes and bit diameter allows similar performance at lower RPM. A shaper bit has 3 flutes and a diameter of about 2 inches which allows it to perform well at low RPMs. I have found that router bits that are at least 1.5" in diameter with two flutes perform reasonably well at 10,000 RPM. I have also used bit diameters down to 3/8" with 3 or 4 flutes at 10,000 RPM for mortising.
Two other factors that are important are feed rate and depth of cut. You will want to do some experimentation to find the sweet spot here for your situation. Start with light cuts at a slow feed rate and work your way up to what feels comfortable and gives the desired results. Without a speed increaser or a PowerPro I would stick with the shaper bits or triple winged router bits of a similar diameter.

[wa2crk]

I have only used the router function on the mark 7 one time to put some slots in some cabinet shelves to prevent the shelves from shifting. The slots were 3/8 inch wide and about half the thickness of the shelves deep. some 1/4 inch dowels were installed in the uprights of the cabinet so the dowels are in the slots when the shelves are used. I had no problems with the operation and was pleasantly surprised at the smoothness of the cuts.

finished and in place.jpg (31.96 KiB) Viewed 14906 times

Here is a pic of the cabinet.
Bill V

[shoedo]

I purchased the Powerpro headstock, so speed will not be an issue. I really appreciate the responses. I was just confused because of the comparison chart which didn't reflect routing capability with the Mark V.

[chapmanruss]

I believe the comparison chart you saw only lists the main 5 functions of the Mark V vs. the main 7 functions of the Mark 7. These are what they come able to do without buying additional accessories when they come from the factory. As an example the Mark 7 comes with some routing and shaping accessories that the Mark V 520 does not. See the Mark 7 standard accessories at this link. Note items 16 to 19. https://www.shopsmith.com/markvsite/standardaccess.htm Also the Mark 7 with the double tilt feature can do under table routing and shaping. To do under table routing and shaping on a Mark V requires the Speed Increaser. The two main differences between the Mark V 520 and the Mark 7 is the double tilt and the standard headstock vs. the Power Pro headstock with a wider speed range. Adding accessories allows both to do way more than their 5 or 7 main functions. Even out of the box there are still accessories needed to do their main functions. Neither comes with lathe chisels or drill bits. They are extra.

As has already been said, preference will be a deciding factor as to the best routing system to go with along with money of course. I have used my Mark V for routing with good results but patience is a key with the lower RPM's.