Any way to convert 1/4 router to 1/2 router?

[Unregistered]

Does anyone have a favorite manufacturer, other than Shopsmith? I'm looking at a Porter-Cable or DeWalt fixed base 1 3/4 hp. I only do small projects with light router requirements.

[army1ret]

Sawdustman-

What type of router do you have? It may be as simple as getting another chuck. I own a Porter Cable router and have two chucks: one for 1/4 inch and another for 1/2 inch.

I'd say go to the company's web page that makes your router and see what they have in accessories.

The other alternative is to invest in a router that has both. It is possible yours had one, but it got lost or is still in the box it was originally shipped in.

Hope this helps! Good luck!

[fjimp]

I searched on the Porter Cable web site and found they make three sizes of chuck for the 890 series. 1/4, 1/3 and 1/2. I then did a google search until a found a vendor selling the two sizes I didn't have. If I remember correctly they were about $10 each. Not a bad way to turn one router into three:rolleyes: Fjimp

[reible]

Interesting that the porter cable did not come with both the 1/4" and 1/2" chucks.... I thought that was one of the standard items along with the wrench set. The two I have both came with them anyway.

I think you ment to say 3/8" rather then 1/3 right?

Ed

[fjimp]

Ed you are correct. Someday I will learn not to post when I am too tired to think. Yes the third chuck is in fact 3/8" Fjimp

[Len]

Now some of you might want to print this out and use it as proof that you too should be able to buy another router... feel free to do so. Just don't mention that the routers are the cheap part of the deal... a couple of bit sets and the router cost is nothing.... think about it, say you have 50 bits and they average $20 a bit, that is $1000.00 in bits alone. So what is the big deal about spend $150 on another router??? Yea think about having a set of 150 good router bits that is only $3000...

Ed

Ed, come on over and explain that logic to my wife. Thanks

[dickroan]

It sure doesn't hurt to have a few routers....I get by with only two by only changing the bit in my table router set up....The hand held router is set up for dove tail cuts only....If you have ever used the router to cut pins & tails, you know what a pain it is to get the bit exposed just right for the fit. If I used more than one size router bit for these cuts, I probably would buy a different router for each size bit....