How do you use these older router bits?

[jrodell27]

Hey GJ - I have a similar set of router bits as pictured here:

https://www.picclickimg.com/d/w1600...ntage-Craftsman-Router-Bit-Kit-With-Metal.jpg

Some questions:

* How do you use the router bits on the far right of the image? I have a very similar set and although I've used routers and bits have never seen ones that have the heads detached like this. I assume it's for quick changing when the router is maybe on a router table or something?

* What are these bits used for? They look like rabbet or slot cutting style bits to me.

* Does anyone know how these bits are assembled for safe operation?

* Does anyone know what the other cap-like pieces are used for (more center bottom of the image)? They have threaded ends and slotted screw tops but I'm at a loss to explain or figure out what they are used for.

I've tried to look for the bit set online and I can't find a lick of anything as far as explanations or more info on these types of bits. Here's my set for reference.



Lastly - Does anyone also know what the bits on the far left with the more spiral shaped cutters are?

 

[lilredex]

You assemble them on an arbour and away you go. You need the extended one, similar to the one pictured and then can install that "plug" or the preferred bearing. I have that set also, but do not use it much because they are 1/4" shaft and are a PITA to put together all the time. I think I made some 1/2" arbours for mine...will have to look at my stuff.

 

[Larryjones]

You can change out the pilot bearing to ride above or below the cutter, and different sized bearings to adjust the incised cut. Used them for molding or other decorative edges.

 

[jrodell27]

You assemble them on an arbour and away you go. You need the extended one, similar to the one pictured and then can install that "plug" or the preferred bearing. I have that set also, but do not use it much because they are 1/4" shaft and are a PITA to put together all the time. I think I made some 1/2" arbours for mine...will have to look at my stuff.

You can change out the pilot bearing to ride above or below the cutter, and different sized bearings to adjust the incised cut. Used them for molding or other decorative edges.

Thank you for your information lilredex & larryjones - I did some more digging and was able to find this PDF on a router forum that has a similar set. I'm glad I did some more digging as I wasn't aware that the "pilot" screw set had to plug in on the other side of the cutter, opposite side of the arbor.

I did read that you can install these "backwards" and caution needs to be used when assembling these. So I'll triple check things before I start any routing. Here's the PDF I was able to find on a similar craftsman set - which uses the same arbor & pilot screws that my set uses.

Thank you guys for your added knowledge as well, would have probably figured it out eventually but you guys saved me a lot of time. Much appreciated!

 

[lilredex]

Could not find any suitable pictures online either.

Here are mine...assembled bits and arbours alone, both 1/4 and 1/2" shanks. Sears sold the 1/4" arbours separately.

 

[EOC_Jason]

* Does anyone know what the other cap-like pieces are used for (more center bottom of the image)? They have threaded ends and slotted screw tops but I'm at a loss to explain or figure out what they are used for.

Those are countersink drill bits... I've never used one on a router before, but I suppose you could if you felt like living dangerously...

 

[lilredex]

They are not drill bits and if you put them in a hole like suggested your arbour will shear and throw things around.

Look at the assembled unit in your reference (fourth row from the left and third one down), that screw on cap rubs on the edge of your work, it takes the place of a pilot bearing (like shown in my picture). Because it is not a free wheeling bearing, it will burn your work, that's why you seldom see bearing-less router bits these days.

 

[rsanter]

for the most part they are obsolete now days
any that are not carbide and roller bearing are junk, toss them

you assemble them to what you need, if you really want the use them then convert them to a ball bearing at the end

bob

 

[EOC_Jason]

They are not drill bits and if you put them in a hole like suggested your arbour will shear and throw things around.

I was talking about these two bits in the picture. Yes maybe I should have made it more clear that you should not use it in a router.

 

[NORTON'S SHOP]

Hey GJ - I have a similar set of router bits as pictured here:

https://www.picclickimg.com/d/w1600...ntage-Craftsman-Router-Bit-Kit-With-Metal.jpg

Some questions:

* How do you use the router bits on the far right of the image? I have a very similar set and although I've used routers and bits have never seen ones that have the heads detached like this. I assume it's for quick changing when the router is maybe on a router table or something?

* What are these bits used for? They look like rabbet or slot cutting style bits to me.

* Does anyone know how these bits are assembled for safe operation?

* Does anyone know what the other cap-like pieces are used for (more center bottom of the image)? They have threaded ends and slotted screw tops but I'm at a loss to explain or figure out what they are used for.

I've tried to look for the bit set online and I can't find a lick of anything as far as explanations or more info on these types of bits. Here's my set for reference.



Lastly - Does anyone also know what the bits on the far left with the more spiral shaped cutters are?

If you need to use the pilots that are in the back two rows, extreme left, don't feed backwards, or climb cut. The pilot can unscrew itself. Know this from personal experience.

I would agree with what was stated earlier, try to use arbors with bearings.