Porter Cable 890 series defective routers

larry528 · 09-07-2008, 03:09 PM

Actually, the plastic gearing broke, how I have no clue, an it was jamming the release.

That is why I tossed it. That router has been in the shop more times than a Yugo. There were two switch episodes, then the recall, and the fixed base locking feature made it a pain to work with a jig. I stopped using it and went back to my 20 year old makita 3 hp. The problem with the makia is weight, no soft start, weight and did I mention weight.

But after spending as much time to make adjustments using that heavy router still was the way to go. I was only using the PC to rout edges on a picture frame, well, I have delegated that router to the bottom of the drawer. I m looking at either the dewalt or the milwaulkee as a replacement, and maybe selling the remains of the PC.

**bobj3** · 09-07-2008, 07:24 PM

Hi larry528

It will fit into a Craftsman base I'm not sure about the Bosch base...

But as far as getting the motor out of the PC base, remove the locking device and then with screw driver open the base just a little bit so the motor can be pulled up and out, once you have it out check for little nicks on the line up pin inside the base..

BUT if you don't want to play with it take it down to one of the many PC service centers again and they will replace it or repair it for you,,,

=======

Quote:

Originally Posted by larry528

Actually, the plastic gearing broke, how I have no clue, an it was jamming the release.

That is why I tossed it. That router has been in the shop more times than a Yugo. There were two switch episodes, then the recall, and the fixed base locking feature made it a pain to work with a jig. I stopped using it and went back to my 20 year old makita 3 hp. The problem with the makia is weight, no soft start, weight and did I mention weight.

But after spending as much time to make adjustments using that heavy router still was the way to go. I was only using the PC to rout edges on a picture frame, well, I have delegated that router to the bottom of the drawer. I m looking at either the dewalt or the milwaulkee as a replacement, and maybe selling the remains of the PC.

hilldh · 05-08-2009, 03:56 PM

I have been following this thread, as I have the 895Pk (still unpackaged) combo kit. What do you suggest I do? e.g. return it for a different manufacture, wait for a new plunge router base?)
Thanks for your persistence on this issue..
Regards,

kp91 · 05-09-2009, 08:40 PM

Doug,

I have 2, granted they are first generation 890s, and they are great routers. I think the newer plunge bases may even be better, but I personally have had no problems with mine.

You can get a lemon on any name brand, just like you can be pleasantly surprised with a bargain brand tool.

**AxlMyk** · 05-09-2009, 09:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hilldh

I have been following this thread, as I have the 895Pk (still unpackaged) combo kit. What do you suggest I do? e.g. return it for a different manufacture, wait for a new plunge router base?)
Thanks for your persistence on this issue..
Regards,

I would say to use it. It isn't doing any good in the case. Enjoy it, and if you find there is a problem, then look into a new base.

**Mike** · 05-10-2009, 10:05 AM

Doug, it has been 9 months since we had a complaint on one of the 890 series routers. While it is true this model had more than it's share of problems, PC stood behind it and repairs were made at no charge. On top of this not all of the routers were effected, if you got a good one you loved it. I would say use your router. Odds are you will be happy with it. If you have problems with it you know where to come for assistance.

schmelifox2 · 01-26-2010, 09:21 PM

Mike - I might be a few days late on this one. I am getting back into woodworking after a long hiatus (babies, weddings, and funerals, etc.) and joined this forum recently because I purchased the 893PK back in early 2004 and was very interested in what was being said. I recall being extremely disappointed with the plunge base as it had all the issues you mention throughout this post. I wrote to PC back then and did receive a call from one of their quality control people who said that all the ones he had checked in the shop worked fine and said that I should return the one I had and exchange for a new one. I did that and the new one was just as bad or worse. I got busy doing other things and I have pretty well just left the plunge in its case and haven't used it other than for some fixed base work when the fixed base is in the table. The reason this issue was resurrected for me is because I was at a woodworkers show two weeks ago and noticed the complete redesign of the plunge base. I tried it out there and noticed a big difference in feel and performance. I am heading to the factory service center this week for the motor recall (like I said I've been away for awhile) and will be taking the plunge also. Mine has been out of warranty for three years??? We'll see and I will definitely let you all know.

schmelifox2 · 02-04-2010, 05:07 PM

Went to service center and just received warranty replacement. What a difference. My faith has been restored in Porter Cable.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Porter Cable Recall	scrollwolf	Lobby	3	11-30-2007 01:18 AM
Porter Cable routers	S Bolton	General Routing	9	09-27-2007 10:58 PM
Anyone use the Porter Cable 7216 Omnijig ???	emailtim	Jigs and Fixtures	8	03-28-2006 09:37 AM
Porter Cable routers Recall	Learning Herb	Tools and Woodworking	3	03-07-2006 07:04 AM

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)

Username		Remember Me?
Password