Some really dumb tablesaw / router questions

[weerez935]

I've never used either of these tools because I've never had to. However I'm starting to build my own guitar amps and have been looking at a good router/ router table setup and a decent tablesaw.

I would be using the tablesaw to make notches so they fit together like Lincoln logs (jointed).

I was looking for some suggestions. Preferably decent budget options as these tools will only be for another expensive hobby lol.

I'm also not sure what routers actually fit in a router table. I want one that fits upside down preferably.

 

[Tronyadorable]

Stupid questions do NOT exist.
Stupid answers abound.

 

[jakemac]

I'll leave it to others to recommend brands and models for the tools. My advise is that you shouldn't cheap out on the tools if you're going to build amps with any quality. Buy the best quality, new or used, that you can. Quality tools help to make quality products. If you have to fight the tool, or compensate for a lousy tool, then the end product won't be as good as it can be.

 

[weerez935]

Thanks haha.
I definitely want to get good tools (I've been looking at Bosch for routers) but tablesaws can be astronomically expensive.

Also I'm not building these to sell or anything just for fun but I want to get the tools to do it right.

 

[theoldwizard1]

There are dozen and dozens of videos on using a router and router table. Here is one channel The Router Workshop.net.

Routers are incredible useful, but they do need templates to do certain functions.

I suspect you might not even need a table saw once you understand how to fully utilize a good router and table.

 

[RonnieC]

The table saw and the router are the two most dangerous pieces of woodworking equipment. You mention that you have used neither. Get some training even if it is just by DVD or Youtube from an experienced (non-bonehead) user on safety.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Also I'm not building these to sell or anything just for fun but I want to get the tools to do it right.

Older (> 10 years old) Craftsman table saws show up on CL, cheap, all of the time. The best one are belt drive and have left and right cast iron table extensions. Don't let surface rust turn you off, it will clean up.

These aren't Delta Unisaws, but they are decent. You might want to consider a fence upgrade.

 

[Cope]

Pat Warner is the go to source for router information.
http://www.patwarner.com/

 

[woody 73]

If you want give these people a call and get their FREE Catalog you can drool later; at least it will give you some ideas for a good set-up.

http://www.grizzly.com/products/10-3-HP-240V-Cabinet-Left-Tilting-Table-Saw/G1023RLW

 

[Givl Reggin]

I've been a woodworker for over 40 years.

SawStop is the only brand I would consider if I were purchasing a tablesaw today.

BenchDog's cast iron top is what you'll want for a routertable .

Porter-Cable model #PC7518 is the router you'll want in the table.

 

[weerez935]

Thank you for all of the suggestions!

For reference this is what I want to do:

 

[McFarmer]

Thank you for all of the suggestions!

For reference this is what I want to do:

I would try and go with something other than a table saw. The dados can be cut with the router. Get a good jigsaw for the straight cuts, smooth it with a hand plane. You can make a router table to do what you need it for.

Actually you could do without the router table, use a guide for the router.

 

[cheechi]

You should be able to get a dovetail guide and using scrap you can find the appropriate straight bit size to use instead of the normal 14* dovetail bit.

There is nothing wrong with doing this on a table if you already have it and a dado stack but honestly the router jig is the best solution. Worst case you might have to make your own template plate for it but you will probably be able to use the one that comes with it if you have a selection of bits available.

 

[weerez935]

What would be a good router to use with a dados jig and what kind of jig would you use to round the edges.

Or could I use a simple guide to do that?

 

[McFarmer]

What would be a good router to use with a dados jig and what kind of jig would you use to round the edges.

Or could I use a simple guide to do that?

I preferr a router with a flat side on the base, easy to slide along a straight edge. The totally round bases are not always centered very well.

Also a variable speed router is nice, with soft start. I have a Makita but Bosch is very good, as is Porter-Cable. No need for large horsepower in what you are doing, mine is 1 1/2 and does all I need in cabinet making.

Also I suggest a router with both a 1/2 and 1/4 collet. If you are going to use it for 3/4 dados, you need a 1/2 shank.

I have a Makita RF1101. Assembled in the USA, which might be as good as a person can get in terms of domestic production of power tools. If that means anything to you.