Consolidated Q&A for CMS Router Table

[Tinker]

I have the GE version.  As JMB has shown, the VL version lacks the mobility of the GE.  With it attached to your MFT, you need to remove the fence from the CMS whenever you use the MFT the VL is attached to if you are going to cut long board ends. 

With my GE, I leave the table fully assembled and ready for use.  It is in allignment with my MFT and both work surfaces are in the same plane (as much as my wavey shop floor will allow.  If the fence is in the way when cutting a board on my MFT that overhangs the table of the CMS, I only need to slide the CMS just a few inches, and the fence is no longer a problem.

The only problem I have as far as the CMS taking up too much space is that rail that mounts the sliding table.  I have very little extra space and no matter which way i mount that rail, it ends up in the way.  I am currently constructing a cabinet with retractable wheels to mount the CMS on.  I will then be able to roll it around so it is completely out of the way when not in use.  Once I move it away from my MFT, I will have more space to work around the MFT, but the CMS will block my travel to get to my bandsaw.  All I will need to do is to temporarily move it back over to the MFT area until I am thru with the BS.  Even tho i will need to roll the CMS around a bit, my workflow will improve, even with that side rail hanging out into space.  I did see on another discussion (or maybe it was pages back on this thread) where a responder drilled a couple of extra holes in the rail so it was centered for infeed/outfeed.  That saves a lot of space in a small work area.  I am thinking of doing the same. That would save me a lot of extra travel when set up at edge of any of my walkaround area.

Any how, that side rail is the only problem I can think of.  The problem would be doubled if mounted on the VL.  In a large shop with plenty of walkaround area, it might not be so bothersome.
Tinker

 

[Jaybolishes]

My insert part number 473809 sits proud of the table surface.  Is it normal or is the insert an anomaly? The inserts that snap inside it are at the same height. Is it proud for a reason I'm not aware of?  Is every one like this? Cannot express how amazing this cms has been making cabinet doors, worth every penny. But I'm concerned this insert may cause a future problem, or make my work less desirable than it could be.   If u got a cms, can u tell me what yours looks like.  It's kinda crazy this insert sits proud of the table for such an otherwise perfect machine. I'll make due if I have too, but if others find theirs to be flush with the table, I'll surely like mine to be the same as this is a surprise.

 

[Tinker]

My insert part number 473809 sits proud of the table surface.  Is it normal or is the insert an anomaly? The inserts that snap inside it are at the same height. Is it proud for a reason I'm not aware of?  Is every one like this? Cannot express how amazing this cms has been making cabinet doors, worth every penny. But I'm concerned this insert may cause a future problem, or make my work less desirable than it could be.   If u got a cms, can u tell me what yours looks like.  It's kinda crazy this insert sits proud of the table for such an otherwise perfect machine. I'll make due if I have too, but if others find theirs to be flush with the table, I'll surely like mine to be the same as this is a surprise.

The insert on my CMS is flush.  The table does have a very slight rise to center (Insert area).  I think this was mentioned by another responder with the explanation the table had been designed that way. I don't know how much it actually rises.  It is not noticeable by eye.  I had to put a straightedge across to determine.  I have, so far, used only one of the inserts.  I have not checked any of the others.
Tinker

 

[Jaybolishes]

Thanks for the input tinker.  Crickets other than your response.

 

[bkharman]

Thanks for the input tinker.  Crickets other than your response.

I will check my VL tonight when I get home. I am using a 1400.

 

[nclemmons]

I have a CMS and the black rings sit ever so slightly below the surface - every so slightly, by perhaps a sheet of paper thickness below, so not much at all.  I don't notice it in use.

The table itself also appears to be flat across in both directions.

neil

 

[peter halle]

Sorry Jay.  Read your post and meant to check it out but the day on site turned to ....  Didn't make it to the shop.  If my memory serves me correctly mine is slightly (uber tiny) lower also.

Peter

 

[bkharman]

I tried all of my adapter rings, they are all either flush with the table or just a hair under it.

Here is a shot.

 

[Jaybolishes]

Thanks boys!  Must be my grey insert is off or not right.  I'll actually try the inserts for the 2200 and the 1100. I just thought of that unfortunately.  I'll check it out tomorrow. Looking at your pic Bkharmon, mine looks like it's rounded or slightly cone shaped.  Yours looks totally flat.  I'm almost sure the grey insert is what's at fault. Thanks for checking that for me guys!

Update:  festool sent me another plastic insert no questions asked.  Lost my height adjustment crank and they sent one of those too!  Best service you will ever find anywhere, no doubt.

 

[b_m_hart]

I've had the CMS router table for some time -- drug it back from Europe.     I'd like to buy just the CMS frame for the MFT3, but not the rest.    Will that be available?

For those considering buying the CMS system:  It works quite well.    Its a bit hard to keep the table and extensions in alignment.   Be really careful to not drop the sliding table when you try to attach it (by getting the first screw in).    I dropped it the first time and the wheel broke -- it should be protected.    Amazingly, I sent Festool (in the US) the part number and was able to buy a new one (from Germany).     Lastly, the dust collection does clog.    I use a 1400 router.    I think dust collection with the 2200 router may work better, but I've not tried that (and it appears that its not approved yet for the US).    Lastly, I do get snipes at the end.    I don't know if thats me or the feather board.

Mark

Sorry, didn't see the answer to the stand alone question.  Those of us with the other version - do we have to pay for another router plate and fence?

 

[bkharman]

I don't understand your question b m hart.  Are you are asking if you need to get a new fence with the VL vs a GE?

 

[b_m_hart]

I don't understand your question b m hart.   Are you are asking if you need to get a new fence with the VL vs a GE?

No.  I'm asking if the VL frame is sold bare without any of the other bits (such as the router plate or fence).

 

[bkharman]

I don't understand your question b m hart.   Are you are asking if you need to get a new fence with the VL vs a GE?

No.  I'm asking if the VL frame is sold bare without any of the other bits (such as the router plate or fence).

Gotcha. I will let a dealer answer but my guess is "no". I think in other markets like UK and AUS you can, but not in NA.

 

[peter halle]

When Festool USA introduced the CMS line here they put together packages rather than do the ala carte approach of overseas.  Barebones about available as a catalog number at this point from what I can see. 

Peter

 

[Neathawk Designs]

I have a couple of questions about this setup:

I have a pretty tight space to work with, so I was wondering if this router table could replace my 6" Ridgid Jointer - it's the standalone unit.  I really don't use it that often and would love to get that space back.  I do have a benchtop Porter cable unit that I keep around for use on the job, so I might be able to get away with that as well. 

I know for sure that this unit will blow away my Freud table setup right now.  But what I'm wondering is, would it be possible for me to get rid of my freud table and router (the router hasn't left the table since the day I bought it) AND get rid of my Porter cable fixed base router?  Those are my only 2 routers (aside from some trim routers... And our CNC machine).  It appears to me that the festool router can be quickly mounted and then removed from the table if needed, which would make it easier to only own 1 router. 

I'd like to sell off my 2 routers, the table, and my Ridgid Jointer and get the CMS table and one of the festool routers.  I'd gain some space, have a portable router setup, and eliminate a lot of dust.  Right now, selling off those tools is really the only way I could justify buying this setup any time soon.

Any feedback would be great! 

Thanks,
Ryan

 

[bkharman]

It could be done Ryan. But... I will say if you are going between tasks (table mounted and freehand) I think it would get old fast.

I love my 1400 both in my CMS and in my hands, but I would go crazy mounting and removing it several times a day. If you do your workflow right, this may be a non issue.

Also, if you like you Freud fence, you might feel like the festool one is a step back. I have an Incra fence on my CMS + MFT and feel it gives me all I need.

 

[Neathawk Designs]

Thanks bkharman,

Well... it wouldn't be permanent - perhaps I would hold onto my porter cable router for a little while for the small amount that it would bring anyway.  The good thing is, I probably would only be switching it out a couple times a month.  It may sit there for a few months, and then I'd use it a ton on 1 job.

I actually think the bigger thing for me is whether or not I can get rid of my larger jointer.  I don't have that much room.  Do you use your table for that purpose at all?

 

[bkharman]

Thanks bkharman,

Well... it wouldn't be permanent - perhaps I would hold onto my porter cable router for a little while for the small amount that it would bring anyway.  The good thing is, I probably would only be switching it out a couple times a month.  It may sit there for a few months, and then I'd use it a ton on 1 job.

I actually think the bigger thing for me is whether or not I can get rid of my larger jointer.  I don't have that much room.  Do you use your table for that purpose at all?

I tested a little bit when I first got my incra (very easy to do by the way) but haven't had a need for that type of work lately.

I am working on a few modifications to my setup and should have some pics soon.

Cheers

 

[Tinker]

When I first set up my CMS w/sliding table, it took up a lot more space than any of my previous tables.  The slide frame hang out either on infeed or outfeed side just seems to take a lot more space than I had anticipated.  That overhang in my small space is a PITA.  I have just finished making a cabinet (very rough as I have used up a bunch of scraps) to carry the CMS and have a drawer to store the sliding table when not in use.  The slider frame is residing on the same shelf as my guide rail supply.  It is an easy job to mount the slider only when needed.  In the meantime, I seem to end up with a lot more space when I have to walk around the unit.  The CMS table by itself, minus the slider, actually takes up no more space then my bench mount router table. 
Tinker

 

[jeh]

Thanks bkharman,

Well... it wouldn't be permanent - perhaps I would hold onto my porter cable router for a little while for the small amount that it would bring anyway.  The good thing is, I probably would only be switching it out a couple times a month.  It may sit there for a few months, and then I'd use it a ton on 1 job.

I actually think the bigger thing for me is whether or not I can get rid of my larger jointer.  I don't have that much room.  Do you use your table for that purpose at all?

It's tough to replace a large jointer. A router table can only do so much and nothing beats a cast iron top.

I thought once I had enough Festool's the need for large machines would pass. It did not pass and have not been able to get rid of my planer, joiner, (2) sanders, drill press, and table saw. I am close to selling my Shaper, but I am wavering. It's a PM2700 in new condition and worth nearly what I paid for it in 2007. I still use all of them though I spend much more time with the Festool equipment.