OF1400 / Porter Cable jig and dust collection

[Chinski]

Using a dovetail jig with the 1400, is there any way of improving dust collection? The extraction port that sits around the bit (above the jig) isn’t very effective, and the under-base catcher plate doesn’t fit when using a guide bush.

Thanks

 

[xedos]

I believe Leigh makes a dust collection accessory for the PC jig now.

 

[WarrenT]

I always found that cutting dovetails on the Leigh Jig was a full contact sport.  Chips and dust were up my nose and in my eyes so I found myself wearing a small respirator, safety glasses, and hearing protection.  I built a cherry chest of drawers last winter and thought the dust collection attachment would be a good idea.

I tried it out and although it helps with the dust and chips, it blocked my view of the router bit contacting the wood, and the collar working its way around the fingers on the jig.  It was dovetailing by feel and not by sight.  I cut the dovetails on one drawer, then stopped using it and went back to full contact 

Over the summer I installed an Incra Positioner on my router table and much prefer that method of cutting dovetails.  The dust collector sucks up all the dust and chips, the router sits still and is easily adjusted by the lift. I like the simplicity of moving the wood back and forth instead of maneuvering the router around the fingers.

My Leigh Jig dust collector is for sale 

 

[Chinski]

Thanks both - amazing. It’s the VRS1200

Leigh tell me they’re not available in the uk so I will have to get one shipped from the US.

Happy to buy second hand if the price is right And I’m legally blind, so it’s all by touch for me.

Thanks

 

[WarrenT]

Mine fits my 24 inch Leigh Jig, so I am not sure it is the same as the Porter Cable..

I will be out in my shop tomorrow and will take a closer look at the part number.

 

[WarrenT]

Mine is a different part number from the one that fits the Porter Cable Jig..