How to fix frozen router bits - Digital Tool Factory blog How to fix frozen router bits - Digital Tool Factory blog

How to fix frozen router bits

Router BitsThis is not computer related, but it was meaningful enough to merit mention here.

Last February I purchased a Triton Woodworking 3.5 Horsepower router, the only “elite” tool I have for my woodworking hobby.  About 4 months ago I managed to get a 1″ radius round-over bit stuck (“Frozen” in woodworking jargon) into the router.  I tried everything I could think of to remove the frozen router bit.  I pulled so hard I bent the factory wrench (really, I did), I tried using micro lubrication, I let it run long enough for everything to heat up, I consulted the woodworking elders at Highland Woodworking, all to no avail.  As Triton is an Australian company, they do not have a local service center.

Then I ran into the good people at Sommerfeld Tools at the woodworking convention and I asked the person doing their demo what he would do.  (We now go to our normal “How To Fix” format)

The Problem – A bit is stuck in the router, and will not come out, no matter what you try.

The Cause – The bit is most likely bottomed out in the router, as well as either a small wood shaving or clump of dust is jammed in there as well.  The shaving or the dust buildup accumulates moisture and swells, which makes it impossible to remove.

The Solution – Use a nail set and hit the steel (not the carbide) of the shaft of the router bit about 20 times or so from several side.  Then try again with a wrench.  This causes (or seems to cause anyway) the clump of dust or wood shaving to dissipate and the bit can be removed.

A huge thank you to the people at Sommerfeld Tools for telling me that trick.

Please use all relevant safety precaution, the most important protection is safety glasses, your mileage may vary, etc.

Creative Commons License photo credit: Let Ideas Compete

 

This post originally appeared on the Stronico blog – with the absorption of Stronico into Digital Tool Factory this post has been moved to the Digital Tool Factory blog

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Written By Steve French

 

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