Had my C3D router die on me so i picked up the Makita clone. Everything is looking good but the power cord is quite a bit shorter, not quite sure how to deal with using the drag chains without running an extension cord. As long as i have enough reach to move freely around the mahine, can i just leave the drag chain off? Pro 4 xl.
I just ran and extension cord through mine, so it’s easier to swap out the router whenever needed. The extension cord includes grounding, so use that to try and mitigate static (still sorting it out) from the dust collection tubing.
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The usual approach for a Makita RT0701 is to run the power cord up to the ceiling along the dust collection hose, then to safely connect to power there.
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Depending on your skill level some people have removed the old C3D router power cable and put it on their Makita routers. If you dont want to open up the Makita router you could cut the cord off about 6 inches from the router and splice the old C3D router cable in. Just make sure you know how to splice and have a good crimping tool. You could also solder the connections but soldering makes a rigid connection that can crack from stress of constant flexing. If you do decide to splice in the old cable then get some shrink wrap for both the individual wires and for the outside of the cord when done splicing. If you feel confident opening up the routers you can put the connections on at the factory locations. For the Makita you would be voiding the warranty by opening the top up.
I am not a fan of extension cords but that could work if you get a good one with a secure connection at the junction.
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I replaced my router with a spindle (bought on Amazon) for my SO3 XXL, and have the cord suspended from the ceiling in the same way that @WillAdams suggested.
I’ve been using it that way for a couple of years now with no problem.
As long as the cord doesn’t get pulled or pinched I’d think you’d be ok not using the drag chain.
Hope this helps.
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Thanks for your input. My first thought was just use an extension cord but wasn’t sure if it was a good idea as it does potentially introduce some issues. Good to know it should be doable.
Thanks for that suggestion, i didn’t think of doing that. I do have a little experience replacing power cords but i think ill hold off on doing that right away just to avoid voiding the warranty on the new router right off the bat. Definitely will leep that in mind though.
Id love to go with the vfd kit from C3D but just cant justify the cost for how often i use my machine. Ive looked at some of the kits on amazon and like the price a lot more but worry if i run into trouble with it.
I felt the same way, so I took the leap to find out.
I’ve had it for a couple of years now, run a ton of jobs, and it’s still working good.
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