15 · Power Tools

Router

Also called Wood router · Plunge router · Trim router

A high-speed cutting tool for shaping edges, grooves, dados and moulding profiles in wood.

Electric (corded)

Overview

A router spins a shaped bit at very high speed to cut a profile into wood: an edge, a groove, a recess or a moulding. The bit decides the shape; the router just drives it.

Decorative edges on tables and shelves, dados and grooves for shelving, hinge and lock recesses, and trimming laminate flush.

Direction matters. Move the router counter-clockwise around the outside edge of a workpiece, so the bit's rotation pulls it into the wood instead of running away along it.

Take several shallow passes rather than one deep cut. A deep cut in one go burns the wood, and it is how bits get broken.

Best uses

Decorative edges on tables and shelves
Dados and grooves for shelving
Hinge and lock recesses
Trimming laminate flush

Troubleshooting

Find a symptom

Burn marks on the wood

Checks to try, in order

Feed a little faster — lingering burns the wood.
Swap a blunt bit.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Bit creeping out of the collet

Checks to try, in order

Unplug, then insert the shank at least three-quarters of its length without bottoming it out.
Clean the collet and tighten it firmly.

A worn collet won't grip — return it.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Tripped GFCI or breaker
Lock-off button
Damaged cord
Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Circuit overloaded
Undersized extension cord
Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

Stop and unplug the tool.
Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

Unplug before changing bits.
Clamp the workpiece and keep both hands on the router.

For electric (corded)

Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.