I have the stock carbide 3d router on my XXL and dont think I am anywhere near needing to change the brushes yet, but I am wondering how I would tell when they need replacing? Thx.
You should be able to get the specifications for a new brush about how long it is. When the brush is below 50 percent it would be a good idea to change them. The brushes are made with an electrical connector with a wire that runs to the brush. Around the wire is a spring that when installed in the router presses the brush up against the armature of the router. So when the brush is 50 percent used the spring may not make a good of contact with the brush against the armature. Usually you will see increased sparks inside the router housing when a brush is not making good contact. There is always a small amount of sparking but when you see a light show you need to take a close look at your brushes.
Along with changing the brushes you need to clean out the router because the brushes are conductive and the brush dust is also conductive. Usually a good vac and blow out is good enough.
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Regular maintenance here is to change the brushes at least once a year. Once you start seeing a “light show” inside, you’ve waited too long. Damage to the armature is relatively minimal, but it will accumulate.
Your mileage may vary. 
Brushes for Makita RT0701c (probably the same as your router 
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Makita RT0701c router
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