The last 3 jobs I’ve run have all failed due to the bit slipping out of the collet. I have a large order for 200 coasters for a convention in a few weeks and I’ve gotten about halfway through the job (8 coasters per run) and all of the sudden I can’t finish a run without an issue.
So far I have tried blowing out the collet, nut and router shaft, had to readjust the router itself because the strain makes it shift in its seat, tried a different collet, tried a different bit, and changed the file so the depth of cut wasn’t as aggressive. I started at a .06" and changed it to a .04" DOC which should be way under tolerances.
I’ve ruined both wrenches I’ve gotten with the router and have started putting an allen wrench through the shaft in order to tighten up the collet and no matter how hard I torque it down, the bit still slips.
Those wrenches look bent & pretty useless for proper snugging up of the collet. I would get a couple of heftier wrenches in the proper sizes from a local hardware store.
You may also want to get a replacement collet if you think the one you have has worn out too much. They do wear & need replacement eventually - possibly moreso if there’s excessive bit slipage?
I have always been one to over-tighten so I’ve never had a bit slip on me. However, to combat this issue for myself I did get the IDC Woodcraft 1/4" speed collet which has worked well for me thus far.
I saw that thread while looking up my issue but figured I had it handled because I was using the allen wrench to snug things down. The picture below shows what I’m talking about. Is this not adequate enough to tighten the collet nut? I think the first thing I’ll try is to get some new collets and to use a qtip on the inside of the shaft.
I would guess the router probably has about 40 hours on it at this point which seems like it’s not that much and I shouldn’t have parts wearing out yet unless I’m mistaken. This is the 2nd router I got from Carbine because the first one died at about 16 hours due to the factory not putting grease in it or something and I was given a replacement.
A firm squeeze with a pair of good quality wrenches works well to secure a tool in a clean and well-maintained collet (assuming the tool and the shaft interior and threads are also clean and in good condition).
I’m not using the button, I’m using the allen key just behind it shoved through the shaft instead of the wrench. I honestly didn’t realize that was a button at all. I think I figured out a part of the problem though. With that allen key in, the bit can’t go as far up the shaft and sticks further down. I’m going to try a new wrench if I can find a low profile one at the local hardware store. I’ll let you know if the problem persists.
I had that problem with a new bit, or was it a collet ? The new collet or bit had been coated with oil at the factory (to prevent rust I assume). Acetone and a rag/Q-tip solved my issue.
I cleaned out the shaft and used a vise grip and wrench to tighten the collet nut. I also changed the bit I was using to an older downcut bit for the pocket and changed to an upcut bit for the contour.
The downcut bit I was using has only a couple hours on it but it is awful loud and squeaks when cutting so I think it may have been a junk bit from the start. I have a Whiteside downcut bit and some new collets on the way so I’ll be able to move off of the old hardware by the weekend. Looks like my issue was a mix of user error and dirty/old hardware.
I had been blowing out the collet shaft periodically with compressed air but hadn’t thought to wipe out the inside so I think that had a lot to do with it. I will add that to my maintenance routine.
What @Nico said. Push the bit all the way into the collet, then back it out a little bit before you tighten with 2 wrenches. If it’s bottomed out, it can magically work itself loose.
? The new collet or bit had been coated with oil at the factory (to prevent rust I assume). Acetone and a rag/Q-tip solved my issue.