[RobbieW]

Hey all. I'm in the market for my first router. Leaning towards the Bosch 1617.

I found a local guy who has one for $45 but he states the bearings need to be replaced. I am torn, bearing and new brushes would be $25. I am comfortable with doing the repair but is it worth is? Looks like you can get the entire 1617 package for $150 as a refurb.

What would you do?

 

[Stick486]

take the refurb.. the warranty and accessories...
https://www.cpotools.com/factory-re...l?cgid=bosch-reconditioned-router-combo-packs
if the bearings need replacing, that router has seen A LOT of use...

CPO refurb is a no worries purchase... VOE...

 

[honesttjohn]

Agree with Stick 110%.

 

[MT Stringer]

I agree with Stick. I have a 1617 mounted in my CNC. I have been using it since August weekly and sometimes daily, with some work lasting several hours. I am sure my router has as many hours, and possibly a lot more than the one you looked at. Mine is still going strong. Just sayin'.

Mike

 

[DesertRatTom]

CPO refurb has a good reputation around here. I'm not much for repair or rebuilding tools.

 

[DaninVan]

Hey, Robbie; welcome!

Just to be clear, the 1617EVS is the fixed base only. The 1617EVSPK is the combination kit with both the fixed and plunge bases.
I made the mistake of buyig the EVS and immediately regretted not going all in and getting the plunge base as well.
In my own defense, I had a plan and I thought it made sense...so basically that's two mistakes I made.

 

[Cherryville Chuck]

Robbie listen to Dan. There are some jobs that can't be done well or safely or both by a fixed base router but can be with a plunge and a plunge will do any job that a fixed base will.

 

[RobbieW]

Well that answered my question. Thank you all. I'll wait until its back in stock

 

[Stick486]

Well that answered my question. Thank you all. I'll wait until its back in stock

order now and wait ...
that's what many do which depletes replacement stocks quite rapidly...

 

[hawkeye10]

Well that answered my question. Thank you all. I'll wait until its back in stock

Great choice Robbie. :smile:

 

[MEBCWD]

Don just something for people to think about:

Did the bearings going out over heat the bearing set causing a loose fit for replacement bearings and poor overall performance of the router even if you replace the bearings and brushes? If it was used on a CNC and run wide open all the time chances are that it is not worth repairing but it is worth replacing. Consider a factory refurb as a good choice.