PSA: This friction nut can ruin your day!

[Srick]

Background:

I last used my Bosch Colt router when cutting the binding channel on my latest build. I had no idea why, but the router bit suddenly dropped and ruined a good inch of so of the channel. Needless to say, I was not happy in the least. And I figured it was operator error. Of course it was. It always is.

I hadn’t used the router since that ugly day. Today, I picked it up to fabricate a caul to glue the bridge and (!!!??****##$$ what the - what the!!?) it happened AGAIN! This time I figured it out. The router’s height locking mechanism may seem tight enough, but with enough load, it slips and ruins your work.

I tightened the locknut and all is well. Don’t do what I did - tighten those nuts before disaster strikes!

[tippie53]

that is a friction nut and you do need to keep an eye on the. Always check your locked
I think we all had something like this happen.
thanks for posting its good to be reminded

[carld05]

I've been disappointed with my Bosch Colt lately for that reason and also that the fine adjustment mechanism doesn't work either. I'm using a Ridgid in the binding rig now.

[BlindBo]

Thanks for the heads up. I don’t use my Colt for binding anymore but do occasionally need it for an odd job. Will check it today.

[scamp]

I know. I almost messed up a guitar because of the same issue. Luckily I noticed it was loose and tightened it before disaster struck. Now I check it every time I use it. Not a good design.

[carld05]

I've been finding it hard to get a wrench or socket in there to tighten that bolt.

[Srick]

I've been finding it hard to get a wrench or socket in there to tighten that bolt.

Gently use a pair of pliers (I won’t tell on you!!). You can always put a little tape over the plier face to soften it.

[MaineGeezer]

FWIW, I've found the DeWalt DWP611 router to be excellent. You can get 3rd-party collets for it in a range of sizes (1/8, 5/32, and 3/16) to supplement the standard 1/4" from:
https://elairecorp.com/dewaltroutercollets/

[Srick]

FWIW, I've found the DeWalt DWP611 router to be excellent. You can get 3rd-party collets for it in a range of sizes (1/8, 5/32, and 3/16) to supplement the standard 1/4" from:
https://elairecorp.com/dewaltroutercollets/

Good to know. After seeing first hand why the router slipped, the Bosch has dropped down several pegs in my estimation. As mentioned before, even though it seemed tight, it slipped when under load. Yet another learning experience.

[Tomcat]

I almost bought a Bosch Colt a few weeks ago. Glad I didn't, now!