|
|
|
| Home » Knowledge Base » Knowledge Base Article | Login | Become a Member | What's New | Site Map |
|
WOODWEB DISCLAIMS any and all RESPONSIBILITY and LIABILITY for the accuracy and application of the information below. Readers agree to evaluate the significance and limitations of the information provided, and accept full responsibility for the application of this information. Read More ... |
|
|
Would you like to add information to this article? Interested in writing or submitting an article? Have a question about this article? A Small Power Feeder for a Router? Question
Forum Responses
I use what's called a "mini power feeder" from a company called Harbor Freight, but I think Grizzly also has them. They are only about $200 (made in China) but mine has worked great for about two years. It has all sorts of adjustments for positioning and feed rates. It's been great how well a power feed works on this application. I can dispense with all the hold downs and hold ins. The power feeder does it all and never gets tired. No more router burns, either.
From contributor S: I agree with the above about the baby feeders. If you watch, you can get them for as little as $169 on sale. I would offer a bit of advice, though. I would use these for smaller pieces. It is a lightweight compared to my 1hp feeder. It is good for feeding door material, but may not be hefty enough to hold down a panel.
From the original questioner: Thanks for the responses. Is my assumption correct that the units you are using are the 1/8 HP models? I didn't know if these would be adequate or if the 1/4 HP units would be better. The smaller and lighter the unit, the better, if the performance is good. I was kind of leaning toward the Grizzly or the Sunhill 1/4 model. The largest item would probably be stiles. I only use the shaper now for door panels and crown moldings. I have a large job that is all hickory and the only way that I've been able to cut the stiles is with a climb cut. I have Freeborn cutters for a 3 HP Powermatic shaper with a 1 HP Grizzly feeder and it works great, but I would rather take a beating than set the thing up. A while back I took out a loan and purchased a router lift from Woodpeckers and a fence from Jointech. It was the best tool purchase I've ever made. Bit changes are fast and easy and bit settings can be returned to within a couple of thou. My time at the router table has probably increased ten fold. Thanks again for your thoughts. I just recently found this site and have really enjoyed reading all the comments and have learned a bunch.
From contributor M: In my prior response, I forgot to mention that the reason I use a 4 x 4 fence on the router table is that I mounted my power feeder right to the fence with a piece of angle iron. That way the feeder moves with the fence. I also did this with my table saw fence, where I also use the same 1/8 HP feeder. When not using the feeder, it easily dismounts with the bracket. Also, I have had absolutely no problem with this feeder being underpowered, and its small size is a real asset.
From contributor S: Yes, I am referring to the 1/8 hp model. Or it might be a 1/6 hp. Delta's seems to be the same except for the size of the motor. I would think this would be fine for stiles. One thing that you want to keep in mind is that the feeders/stand is only as strong as the table it is bolted to. Unless you strengthen your base, a 1/4 may break your table. The nice thing about these feeders is that they are variable speed vs. a choice of 4 speeds. I would think that the 1/4hp would be a stronger unit, though. Have you reviewed the related Knowledge Base areas below? 
|
