Router top plan in mind

[mntbighker]

I posted this to routerforums just now...

I started to build a router stand for my cast iron Benchdog top yesterday and pitched the whole idea tonight. I have a new plan forming in my head and thought I would throw it out there for opinions. I have the 4 inch extension for it as well. My new plan is to use the top to build a pattern template. Then cut an MDF perimeter extension using the template. I figured I would use thread inserts around the inside perimeter in the MDF. Lay the whole mess on a flat surface and tighten the bolts. I considered adding a masonite layer over the MDF (or melamine) but I am hoping to route a grove for extra t-Track and if they have them a longer aluminum miter slot extrusion to extend the one the top comes with. I figure about 8 to 10 inches extension all the way round. I already have my cabinet design in mind and it will just be a bit wider and deeper. If this sounds like overkill, I have more in mind for this than just router table functions. I also plan to drill some holes in the MDF like the ones in my Festool Multi-Function table so some of those accessories will fit the MDF extension and I may even look into adding the perimeter aluminum extrusions. Festool sells them. I am matching the heights so the router table and Multi-function table can hypothetically be joined using Festool accessories.

--Mark

 

[Eli]

John (woodshopdemos) put a router in the top of an MFT. An MFT 800 I'd think would be perfect for this, esp. if you were going to join the two tables.

 

[mntbighker]

John (woodshopdemos) put a router in the top of an MFT. An MFT 800 I'd think would be perfect for this, esp. if you were going to join the two tables.

Buying an 800 may in fact be the most effective way to get the various parts I need for what I have in mind. Now that you mention it I will probably want to build it the same exact height, length and width as the 800 anyway. I can replace the 800 top with a solid MDF replacement and sink the Benchdog top into it. I am liking this idea. I need to work out the storage and dust collection requirements I need underneath. I probably can't use the legs.

--Mark

p.s. I better act quick, the 800 appears to be discontinued. Maybe there will be "deals" available?

p.s.s Crap!! the MFT-800 is only an inch bigger length and width than my top. I guess it's the 1080 or DIY

 

[Eli]

Yeah. You could still make your cabinet, cause now you'll have two tops! :

Here's John's I think....

 

[Eli]

Maybe there will be "deals" available?

Remember who you're dealing with! :

 

[Tinker]

I fit an MFT 800 with a router plate.  Luckilly, i had already ordered (and stored for future use) an extra 800 top.
The setup works fine as a router table.
It sucks as an MFT top. 

It seems that everytime i want to make use of the MFT 800 for an extra work surface for sawing or assembly work, the plate is right smack where I want to place a clamping device.  I tried joining the 800 to the 1080, but that does not fit well with the configuration of floorspace.

I finally pulled the modified top out of the MFT frame and replaced with the extra unmodified top.  These MFT's are designed very well for the purposes they are designed for.  They are ok as a somewhat conventional router table.  IMHO, they do not work out as set up for both purposes.

If I had more floor space in my shop, i would have gotten another full MFT 800, but I guess that idea has gone by the boards for now.

mtnbighker mentioned useing the Festool extensions.  I have one of them and i have plans to pick up one or two more (my wish list).  Those extensions make the 800 a much more usefull tool, especially when I transport it outside to my "open air" shop.  One on each end greatly increases both work support space and portability of that larger space.

I would consider making them out of wood, but there is always a shortage of time for me to do the projects at hand.  My Christmas list always seems to be piles of lumber in various sizes and shapes.  i let the recipients unwrap and then i tell them to give the pieces back to me.  I'm still putting in my full work load with landscaping and sno plowing, so the extra cost for the extensions is of less consequence than the loss of time and space to make my own.

elsewhere, it has been said that if a man enjoys what he does for a living, he will never have to work a day in his life.  I sort of fit in there somewhere.

Happy New Year every body
Tinker