[Mike]

Wally, I found the answer to your problem a couple months ago. Its a home built set up for surfacing flat panels. Here is a photo of it. Gee, it even uses a Bosch 1617, my favorite! Now if I can just remember where I found it...
Both Woodcraft and Rockler also carry a limited selection of UHMW. Plan on using your biggest wallet when you go looking.

 

[Mike]

Wally, your idea would work if you design a frame to hang the panel on that would both support it and keep downward pressure for good bit contact. The idea behind the jig I sent the photo of is the frame supports the router at a uniform height above the panel. This could easily be customized to fit any size panel. By making passes back and forth over the panel you are working like a milling machine to ensure a uniform surface. Here is the info on the jig:
http://www.woodworkersjournal.com/plans/index.cfm/plan_details/5/61/1641

 

[Mike]

Julie, Have you considered putting a layer of laminate over the pine? A table that see's a great deal of use would benefit from this treatment. Pine is just too soft for everyday wear and tear, unless of course you enjoy refinishing?
Another option would be to replace the table top with one built from hardwood. This would be sturdy and have the beauty of solid wood. The nice thing is you already have the perfect template in the origonal top. Tables with mixed woods can be quite eye catching. If you are not comfortable with building your own top you can purchase table top parts from a company such as Van ***** Restorers. They carry everything such as tops, aprons, sliding support mechanisms, legs and any associated hardware.

 

[Mike]

Julie, another approach would be to fill in the deep gouges with hot melt lacquer sticks. You can find these in colors to match your finish. You then use a graining pen to draw the missing grain, seal it with a coat of lacquer and you are done. Rockler carries a limited supply of these items, the best source would be Mohawk. Mohawk offers a complete line of professional refinishing products. Having used them I highly recommend them. I repaired a 3/4" deep by 3/4" wide gouge 8" long that tapered to a scratch on a triple length oak dresser using their products. The repair was invisible.
http://www.mohawk-finishing.com/