rmaxa

I was thinking of changing out my Router table top. I want to make several improvements. I looking for your opinion on whether to run the fence on two T tracks or run two groves. The current table was a Norm Abrams design, which called for groves. I was thinking that T tracks may work better. However, after checking several photos from members, it looks like most are built with the grove. I also need to make this top with high pressure laminate. The old top is chipped along the vertical T track.
Look forward to your opinion.
Rolf

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Rolf

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kp91

Rolf,

I use a long piece of aluminium angle, (4" x 4" x 1/4" I think), and I have no slots or grooves at all. I simply use 2 6" F clamps for holding it down.

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Doug
1 John 1:9

Drugstore Cowboy

I just finished a new top --
Before I start cutting grooves in it I think I'm gonna try a design I saw from Mike on here and browsing the web --
Fence base extends past the table and uses designed in wooden clamps to clamp to the top.

Mike

Rolf, there is really no need to cut slots or mount T tracks on your router table or fence. Bob and Rick have been spreading the word for years, "Simple is better!" Lets say you have a Router Workshop style table. Most of the time you would work on the short end of the table for smaller pieces. If you want to do some large panel raising all you need to do is put your fence on the other side of the bit and work from the long end. Two C clamps and you are routing. No fiddling about trying to locate sliding nuts, thread bolts or knobs. Two boards joined at 90 degrees with some gussets for support and you have a fence to clamp featherboards to for making mouldings. If you feel this quick and easy method is not professional enough, ask yourself are you trying to build fancy jigs or build projects? Anything that reduces set up time and gives me more time for actual routing is a good idea in my book. Rick converted me. My first table and fence were built from the plans in ShopNotes #1. This is an excellent plan, Neal (Oldnewbie) is building one now for his Incra jig. The fence works well with a T track for mounting accesories. I still use it, but most of my routing now is quicker using an Oak Park table. I look forward to hearing what you decide.

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Mike
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rmaxa

Thanks for everyone's input.
Mike, I already have a beefy fence with a dust collect system attached. I am thinking of building a smaller table in the future. I would look to keep that simple for both the table and the fence.
Rolf

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Rolf

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Mike

Rolf, this is a perfect reason to stick with one type of mounting plate. This way you can switch routers between tables in seconds, or switch routers in one table. Wouldn't it be great if we could all agree on one design that would become standard?

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Mike
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rmaxa

I like your thinking Mike, however one standard would not be any fun. The challenge of making it work with different types leads to better discussion. What feels goos for one person may not work for another. I like to try new things, and I will just have to try your recommendation.
It looks like my list of things to do is starting to add up, so this may be more of a future project.
Thanks for your feedback.
Rolf

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Rolf

http://www.rochesterwoodworkers.org/index.html

Broken Arrow

Mike,
Where can I get that plans you mentioned?
"Shopnotes #1"