The following article is featured in Woodshop News' October 2002 viewable on page T12.

DEWALT Power Tools' introduction of a fixed-base router system with totally interchangeable motors and bases will mark the end for production of its fixed-base DW610 router.  The system features two new motors - 1-3/4-hp, 11-amp fixed-base model, and a 2-1/4-hp, 12-amp variable-speed version with soft-start and spindle lock.  The routers can be fitted to fixed, plunge or D-handle bases.  Fixed-base/plunge-base router combination kits in both motor sizes are also included in DEWALT's new router package, available in October.

"We've had the 610 in our line for about 45 years, and over the course of that time there were obviously some opportunities for improvement," said Jim Benton, DEWALT's Product manager.  "We didn't have some of the things that we needed to participate in the game - the D-handle, the plunge base, the combo kits and most importantly now, the variable speed and soft-start."

DEWALT designed the fixed base with an adjustable motor cam-lock.  Once it is unlocked, the motor pack can be taken out of a router table by squeezing two latches on each side of the base.

"Traditionally, the two ways to lock your base to the motor pack were with wing nuts or T-screws," Benton said. "What happened was those wing nuts or T-screws would strip out.  The user didn't know exactly when it was truly tight.  The nice thing about the cam lock is it's cast steel; it's very durable; and it's very easy to open and close in terms of loosening or locking your base tot he motor cam; and it is totally adjustable."

Unlike older models that had a rack-and-pinion depth adjustment, cutting depth for the new models is adjusted by turning a micro-fine depth adjustment ring.

"The nice thing about it you get macro-adjust and micro-adjust within the same action," he said.  "One full turn of the ring equals 1", so you can make coarse adjustments easily, but you can also fine-tune it to within 1/64"."

According to Benton, one of the design goals was to develop a plunge router that had a performance level as impressive as the fixed-base model.

"The competitors' kits - you get a pretty good fixed-base router, but you really compromise on your plunge router.  The through-the-column dust collection is an award-winning feature.  We use precision-machined brass bushings and case hardened steel rods.  It provides a really smooth, almost a self-lubricating plunge stroke, and doesn't allow for any bumping or chatter.  You get a nice 90-degree entry and exit into your material."

All models have clear Lexan sub-bases, which Benton said are very durable, unlike phenolic bases, which have a tendency to chip, crack or scratch.  The 1-3/4-hp, 11-amp models operate at 24,500 rpm.  The 2-hp, 12-amp variable-speed models operate between 8,000 rpm and 24,500 rpm.

The D-handle models are suited for edge profiling and production-type work.  The base has a short detachable, cord set that plugs into the motor pack directly from the handle, rather than attaching the motor pack with the 8' cord to the D-handle.

All models have interchangeable 1/4" and 1/2" collets, and a concentricity gauge.  The 12-amp variable-speed kit also includes an extra-large-hole sub-base.  The motor housing and base are die-cast aluminum, and the housing is nickel-plated.  DEWALT decided to stay with a toggle switch that Benton said is totally encapsulated with a rubber boot.

For the Complete Product Line of Routers, click here and look for any model starting with the DW616 or DW618.

Reprinted with the permission of Woodshop News.