Bosch RA1181 Operating/Safety Instructions Manual page 26

ROUTING USING FEATHERBOARDS
(Fig. 22)
Featherboards are helpful in controlling the workpiece
while routing and assist in keeping the workpiece flat
on the tabletop. The table featherboard, combined with
the fence featherboard, helps keep the workpiece
pressed against the fence and tabletop. The best
location for the featherboards varies according to
your application, workpiece size, and other factors.
1. Loosely install the featherboard(s) as described
on page 25.
2. Place the workpiece on the router table so that it is
squarely against the fence.
3. Position the featherboard so that the featherboard
is snug against the workpiece and tighten the
clamping knobs.
4. The workpiece should move with some resistance
but without requiring a great effort.
5. For wider workpieces, the tabletop featherboard
cannot be used. The second featherboard may also
be positioned on the fence, if desired.
Additional featherboards, model RA1187, can be
purchased from your Bosch retailer.
For accuracy in routing and
improved control, the workpiece
should be held against the router table fence when
routing.
ADJUSTING THE FENCE FACING (Fig. 23)
The right and left fence facings are attached to the front
face of the router table fence and can be adjusted
inward or outward from the router bit to allow proper
clearance for different-sized bits. To provide the best
support during routing operations, the fence facings
should be as close to the bit as possible without being
able to come in contact with the bit (typically about 1/4"
from the bit is a suitable distance).
1. Loosen the two clamping knobs on the backs of
the fence facings and slide the facings inward or
outward from the router bit as needed.
Router Table Operation
FIG. 22
completed and the workpiece is completely clear of
the bit. Such precautionary safety measures reduce the
risk of personal injury and/or property damage.
Featherboards aid in holding the workpiece in
position when routing on a router table.
•
They are NOT intended to hold the workpiece in
place alone when the workpiece is in contact with the
•
bit, or at any other time when the bit is turning.
FIG. 23
Such precautionary safety measures increase the
accuracy in routing and improve the control of the
workpiece, reducing the risk of personal injury.
2. Once the fence facings are in the desired position,
tighten the clamping knobs SECURELY.
26
Never let go of the workpiece
when routing until the cut has been
Always hold the workpiece against
the router table fence when routing.
DIRECTION
OF FEED