Carbide Compact Router

The Carbide Compact Router is available in two different models:

• The standard Carbide Compact Router that uses proprietary collets.
• The ER-11 model that uses standard ER-11 collets to hold tools.

Internally, both routers are identical. There is no difference in performance between the two.

What's Included

• Compact Router
• 1/8 and 1/4" Collet
• Qty 2, extra brushes
• Wrenches to change collets

Clamping the Carbide Compact Router

The Carbide Compact Router features a 65mm diameter body meant to be clamped into our CNC Routers.

When clamping the router, it's essential to use only enough force to hold it in place rather than tightening it down as much as possible.

Overclamping the router will lead to premature failure.

The best general advice is what we said above: only clamp the router enough to hold it in place. If you happen to have a torque wrench, our testing has shown that 7Nm of torque on the two clamping screws should be sufficient.

Inserting an ER-11 Collet (ER-11 Model Only)

If you have the ER-11 model, it's important to insert the collet into the collet nut before inserting a tool and before inserting the collet into the spindle.

1. Make sure there is no tool in the collet
2. Press the short end of the collet into the collet nut.
3. Press firmly on the collet while rocking it back and forth until you hear a click.

You can now insert a tool into the collet and tighten the nut into the router body.

Changing Tools

While the Compact Router includes a button to lock the spindle for tool changes, we do not recommend using it. When changing tools, we recommend using the two included wrenches—one to hold the spindle stationary and one to turn the nut.

Changing Brushes

The video below shows how to change brushes in the router.