PC 75182 Replacement

[mikek]

I have used the PC 75182 for many years, but I am tired of rebuilding them. Do any of you still using routers have good results from possibly better choices? Thanks for your help.

[gundog]

I used a Milwaukee 3.5 HP for a while on my machine but did not like the collets. I have the big PC on a manual router table and I like it better than the Milwaukee.

[srwtlc]

Step up to a spindle. Nice price for a square body one (https://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/cnc-spindle/2-2-kw-3hp-air-cooled-spindle/). At that price, if they don't last, you can replace them just the same as a PC router and have more torque throughout the rpm range and quieter to boot. ER20 collet. VFD needed (https://www.automationtechnologiesinc.com/products-page/cnc-spindle/kl-vfd05-mini-type-integrated-universal-inverter-vfd-2-2kw/).

[waynelocke]

I replaced my PC with a 3kw (4hp) Chinese spindle a few years ago and have been extremely happy. The spindle was about $300 off of eBay and I purchased an Hitachi vfd for another about $300. The shielded cable ran about $3.50/foot so the total cost came to just shy of $1000. I am hoping to purchase a new spindle this year to keep as a spare although I have had no problems with the current spindle. Unbelievably better than a router.

[coryatjohn]

>> Unbelievably better than a router.

Also a lot quieter...

[bleeth]

Those who claim any router is anywhere near as good as spindle either has never run a spindle or refuses to face facts.
That's not to say you can't do fine work with a router, just that the spindle is a different animal, much like a small 4 in comparison to a V-8.
Any change will require at least a change of mount as well and possibly (depending on your z) a change of springs.
Upgrading to a small HSD or the import as noted previously is well worth the difference from messing with routers.
The increased torque AND severely reduced runout at the collet is a very big improvement.

[gundog]

I should have mentioned when I did change the router on my Shop Bot I replaced it with a Columbo 3 HP spindle it was a big upgrade. If it were me I would either put in an HSD spindle or try one of the cheap China made spindles I did not care too much for the Columbo spindle because it had a terrible knuckle busting collet wrench and they did not recommend drilling with it HSD can be used to drill.