Use of the OF2200 in a non-CMS router table?

[Straightlines]

I have an OF2200 that I bought to mount into a generic router table. Then came reality: The handles are a challenge, and vertical adjustments are really problematic, as is changing the bits. Has anyone been able to make this work without it becoming a ridiculous chore to change bits and set heights? There are tons of lift options for standard router motors and they are quite functional, including above-table but changes. That is where I would like to end up, and I would like to harness the power of the OF2200 in the process. Any success stories out there?

 

[Vondawg]

If you’d consider the GE router table, made for the 2200 there are two in the classified right now

 

[peter halle]

Well, depending on the age of your 2200 you might also be able to add the fact that you won't be able to control it with a table mounted switch which would mean that you would have to reach under each time to turn it on and off. Not fun at all, but doable of course.

 

[Jim_in_PA]

If I had an OF 2200, I wouldn't put it in a table for the reasons that Peter mentioned. I prefer a simpler 15amp router motor in a lift for that. The OF 2200 would be the "hand-held" beast of the collection for when more power and more mass is a benefit to the operation at hand.

 

[Straightlines]

Thank you for your replies!

I think mine is pretty recent.

I have a 2.25hp Bosch that I have been using for this purpose, but expected to need more power, hence the 2200. In truth, I don’t expect to be raising any panels, and I have a great vintage radial arm saw that makes rabbets and dados into child’s play. Perhaps the 2200 isn’t the boon I expected it to be. Thoughts?

 

[Sparktrician]

Well, depending on the age of your 2200 you might also be able to add the fact that you won't be able to control it with a table mounted switch which would mean that you would have to reach under each time to turn it on and off. Not fun at all, but doable of course.

With all respect, the OF 2200 CAN be controlled from an external switch above the router table. I did it with my CMS to resolve the issue that Peter mentioned. That issue is exacerbated by the use of an infeed table extension, making the use of an under-CMS switch even more problematic. I built my own solution using a 20-amp switch in a box attached to the rear extrusion of the CMS frame, and it works superbly.

 

[peter halle]

With all respect, the OF 2200 CAN be controlled from an external switch above the router table. I did it with my CMS to resolve the issue that Peter mentioned. That issue is exacerbated by the use of an infeed table extension, making the use of an under-CMS switch even more problematic. I built my own solution using a 20-amp switch in a box attached to the rear extrusion of the CMS frame, and it works superbly.

Your 2200 is prior to 2020 isn't it? The newer ones are designed so that if it is locked on and there is a current interruption it will not turn on until the locked trigger on the router is released and then depressed again.

You did your mod to get past the amp limit of the factory supplied CMY switch, correct?

Peter

 

[Straightlines]

Ha, that is a great above-the-table switch set up, I like it.

So Peter, to test the switching, it sounds like I can safely place my 2200 on its side, plug it in, turn/lock it on, unplug it, then plug it back in. If it turns back on, then it’s pre-2020, if not then it’s later and will be difficult in a table. Right?

 

[peter halle]

Ha, that is a great above-the-table switch set up, I like it.

So Peter, to test the switching, it sounds like I can safely place my 2200 on its side, plug it in, turn/lock it on, unplug it, then plug it back in. If it turns back on, then it’s pre-2020, if not then it’s later and will be difficult in a table. Right?

Correct. No router bit installed for safety of course

 

[Straightlines]

I wasn’t considering a router bit, but chucking up a gnarly shaper cutter would be exciting

 

[Sparktrician]

Your 2200 is prior to 2020 isn't it? The newer ones are designed so that if it is locked on and there is a current interruption it will not turn on until the locked trigger on the router is released and then depressed again.

You did your mod to get past the amp limit of the factory supplied CMY switch, correct?

Peter

Yes, and yes. There were two main reasons; getting my ugly face well away from the spinning bit should things ever go to worms and I needed to shut it down right now, and bypassing the 15 amp limit imposed by the stock CMS switch. I also use both infeed and outfeed table extensions, and the infeed table obstructs access to the stock power switch.

 

[PaulMarcel]

This is the reason why I'd only sell my pre-2018 OF-2200 and CMS table together. I do like the above-board switch. I had thought of changing out the Festool switch to a paddle since you can hold the stock in place while things go awry and knee the switch