LF Kobalt K7343 User manual

1
kobalttools.com
ATTACH YOUR RECEIPT HERE
Serial Number _______________ Purchase Date _______________
Questions, problems, missing parts? Before returning to your retailer, call our customer
service department at 1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258), 8 a.m.-8 p.m., EST, Monday -Friday.
JW1892
Français p. 34
Español p. 68
KOBALT®and the K Design®are registered
trademarks of LF, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
ITEM #0616299
11 AMP
ROUTER WITH
ROUTER TABLE
MODEL #K7343

2
kobalttools.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Product Specications ............................................................2
Safety Information ...............................................................3
Package Contents ..............................................................10
Tools Needed ..................................................................11
Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Operating Instructions for the Router................................................14
Adjusting the Cutting Depth .......................................................16
Feeding the Router .............................................................18
Placing the Router onto the Work Piece and Starting the Cut .............................20
Installing the Router Table Assembly ................................................23
Operating Instructions for the Router Table ...........................................27
Switch Box Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Above-Table Depth Adjustment ....................................................28
General Routing Operations with the Router Table .....................................28
Care and Maintenance...........................................................31
Troubleshooting ................................................................32
Warranty......................................................................33
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS
ROUTER (Model# 1311.2)
Motor 120 V~, 60 Hz, 11A
No-load speed 25,000 RPM
Collet capacity 1/4 in. & 1/2 in.
Base dimension 6 in. (15.2 cm)
Sub-base opening diameter 2 in. (5 cm)
ROUTER TABLE (Model# 1034.1)
Table switch rating 120 V~, 60 Hz, 15A
Table size (approximate) 23-1/2 in. x 14-1/8 in.
Table height 11-1/4 in.
Max. load capacity 50 lbs.

3
kobalttools.com
SAFETY INFORMATION
Please read and understand this entire manual before attempting to assemble, operate or install
the product. If you have any questions regarding the product, please call customer service at
1-888-3KOBALT (1-888-356-2258), 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST, Monday - Friday.
KNOW THE TOOL
To operate this tool, carefully read this manual and all labels afxed to the router and router table
before using them. Keep this manual available for future reference.
IMPORTANT
This tool should only be serviced by a qualied service technician.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS THOROUGHLY
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and their meaning.
Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and more safely.
V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Volts
A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amp
Hz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hertz
W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Watts
min . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minutes
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alternating Current
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Direct Current
no. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No-load Speed
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Class II Construction
.../min . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Revolutions or Strokes Per Minute
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indicates danger, warning, caution.
It means attention! Your safety is involved.

4
kobalttools.com
SAFETY INFORMATION
GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING: Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, re and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-
operated (cordless) power tool.
WORK AREA SAFETY
•Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered and dark areas invite accidents.
•Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of
ammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.
•Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause
you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
•Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use
any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodied plugs and matching
outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
•Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges
and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or
grounded.
•Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
•Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power
tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
•When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
•If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device
(RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
•Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power
tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the inuence of drugs, alcohol
or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
• Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, a hard hat, or hearing protection used for
appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
•Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to
power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your
nger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
•Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key
left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.

5
kobalttools.com
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control
of the power tool in unexpected situations.
•Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving
parts.
•If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities,
ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust devices can reduce dust-related
hazards.
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
•Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct
power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
•Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that
cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
•Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power
tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
•Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
•Maintain power tools. Check for mislignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of
parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool operation. If damaged, have
the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power
tools
•Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control;
•Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions,
taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the
power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
SERVICE
• Have your power tool serviced by a qualied repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
SPECIFIC SAFETY WARNINGS FOR ELECTRIC ROUTER
•Hold a power tool by insulated gripping surfaces, because the cutter may contact its own
cord. Cutting a "live" wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool "live" and shock the
operator.
•Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to a stable
platform. Holding the work by your hand or against the body leaves it unstable and may lead
to loss of control.
•Only use router bits suitable for the no-load speed of the tool.
• Never use router bits with a diameter exceeding the maximum diameter specied in the
technical data section.
•Do not use the tool in an inverted position unless it is properly and securely installed to
a router table.
• Wear a dust mask specically designed for protection against lead paint dust and fumes
and ensure that persons within or entering the work area are also protected.

6
kobalttools.com
•Wear ear protection. Exposure to noise can cause hearing loss.
•Always switch the machine off and wait until it has come to a standstill before placing it
down.
•Use only sharp cutter bits that are not chipped or cracked. Blunt cutter bits will cause stalling
and burn the workpiece.
•Never use this router motor with a cutter bit larger than 1-1/4 inch in diameter.
•Always use cutter bits that are designed for this router. Never use cutter bits which are
larger in diameter than the opening, which could cause possible loss of control or create other
hazardous conditions that could cause serious personal injury.
GENERAL SAFETY WARNING FOR BENCH TOOLS
•Keep guards in place and in working order.
•Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Form a habit of checking to see that keys and
adjusting wrenches are removed from the tool before turning it on.
•Keep the work area clean. Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents.
•Don’t use in a dangerous environment. Don’t use power tools in damp or wet locations or
expose them to rain. Keep the work area well lit.
•Keep children away. All visitors should be kept a safe distance from the work area.
•Make workshop childproof with padlocks and master switches, or by removing starter
keys.
•Don’t force tool. It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
•Use the right tool. Don’t force tool or attachment to do a job for which it was not designed.
•Use proper extension cord. Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When
using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current that your
product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of
power and overheating. Table 1 shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and
nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge
number, the heavier the cord.

7
kobalttools.com
Table 1: Recommended size of extension cords
AMPERE
RATING
VOLTS TOTAL LENGTH OF CORD IN FEET
120 V~
25 ft. 50 ft. 100 ft. 125 ft.
A. W. G.
0~6 18 16 16 14
6~10 18 16 14 12
10~12 16 16 14 12
12~16 14 112 Not Recommended
•Wear proper apparel. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets, or other
jewelry which may get caught in moving parts. Nonslip footwear is recommended.
Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
•Always use safety glasses. Also use a face or dust mask if the cutting operation is dusty.
Everyday eyeglasses only have impact-resistant lenses. They are NOT safety glasses.
•Secure work. Use clamps or a vise to hold work when practical. It’s safer than using your hand
and it frees both hands to operate the tool.
•Don’t overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
•Maintain tools with care. Keep tools sharp and clean for the best and safest performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
•Disconnect tools before servicing or when changing accessories, such as blades, bits, cutters,
and the like.
•Reduce the risk of unintentional starting. Make sure switch is in the off position before
plugging in.
•Use recommended accessories. Consult the owner’s manual for recommended accessories.
The use of improper accessories may cause risk of injury to persons.
•Never stand on the tool. Serious injury could occur if the tool is tipped or if the cutting tool is
unintentionally contacted.
•Check damaged parts. Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged
should be carefully checked to determine whether it will operate properly and perform its
intended function - check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving part, breakage of
parts, mountings, and any other condition that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that
is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced.
•Direction of feed. Feed work into a blade or cutter against the direction of rotation of the blade
or cutter only.
•Never leave a tool running unattended. Turn power off. Don’t leave tool until it comes to a
complete stop.

kobalttools.com
8
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
•In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding
provides a path of least resistance for electric
current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This
tool is equipped with an electrical cord that has an
equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug.
The plug must be plugged into a matching outlet that
is properly installed and grounded in accordance with
all local codes and ordinances.
• Do not modify the plug provided. If it will not t into the
outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a qualied
electrician.
•Improper connection of the equipment-grounding
conductor can result in a risk of electric shock.
The conductor with insulation that has an outer
surface that is green with or without yellow stripes
is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or
replacement is necessary, do not connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a live terminal.
• Check with a qualied electrician or service personnel if the grounding instructions are not
completely understood, or if in doubt as to whether the tool is properly grounded.
•Use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plugs and 3-pole receptacles that
accept the tool’s plug.
•Repair or replace damaged or worn cord immediately.
•This tool is intended for use on a circuit that has an outlet that looks like the one illustrated in
sketch A in the gure above. The tool has a grounding plug that looks like the plug illustrated
in sketch A in the gure above. A temporary adapter, which looks like the adapter illustrated in
sketches B and C, may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch
B if a properly grounded outlet is not installed by a qualied electrician. The green-colored rigid
ear, lug, and the like, extending from the adapter must be connected to a permanent ground,
such as a properly grounded outlet box.
SPECIFIC SAFETY WARNINGS FOR THE ROUTER TABLE
WARNING: For your own safety, read owner’s manual before using Router or Router Table.
•Always wear eye protection.
•Feed workpiece against router bit rotation.
•Do not use awkward hand positions.
• Keep ngers away from revolving cutter. Use xtures when necessary.
•Use overhead guard when adjustable fence is not in place.
•Do not expose to rain or use in damp location.
• Risk of re or electric shock. Total circuit load for the two outlets must not exceed 15A.
• Risk of re or injury.
A.
B.
C.
GROUNDING
PIN
COVER OF GROUNDED
OUTLET BOX
GROUNDED MEANS
METAL
SCREW

9
kobalttools.com
WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling and other
construction activities contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Some examples of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead-based paints.
• Crystalline silica from bricks, cement, and other masonry products.
• Arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies depending upon how often do this type of work.
To reduce your exposure to these chemicals:
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Work with approved safety equipment, such as dust masks that are specially designed to lter
out microscopic particles.
• Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power-sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water.
Allowing dust to get into your mouth or eyes or to lie on the skin may promote absorption of
harmful chemicals.

10
kobalttools.com
PACKAGE CONTENTS
NOTICE: To simplify handling and to minimize any damage that may occur during shipping, the
router table comes partially assembled. Separate all the parts from the packaging materials and
check each part against the package contents list in order to ensure that all parts have been
included. Do this before discarding any of the packaging material.
Carefully inspect the items to ensure that no breakage or damage has occurred during shipping.
If any of the items in the parts list is missing, call customer service at 1-888-356-2258.
WARNING: If any parts are missing, DO NOT attempt to assemble, install, or use the router
table until the missing parts have been found or replaced and the router table has been properly
and correctly assembled according to this owner’s manual.
Part list for the router table
PARTS FOR ROUTER TABLE DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Router table surface assembly 1
Table leg 2
Short pan-head screw, 3 washers
and nut for installing the leg to the table 4
Long pan-head screw, and a washer 4
PARTS FOR MOUNTING ROUTER DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Flat-head screw for attaching the router
to the mounting plate of the table 3
Level screw 4
PARTS FOR FENCE DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Fence assembly 1
M6x26 bolt, washer and clamping knob for locking
the fence to the table (pre-installed on the fence) 1
M6x40 bolt, washer and clamping knob for locking
the fence to the table (pre-installed on the fence) 1

11
kobalttools.com
PARTS FOR FEATHER BOARD DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Feather board 3
M6x35 bolt, washer and wing nut for attaching
the feathers to the fence 4
M6x35 bolt, 2 washers and wing nut for attaching
the feather to the table top 2
OTHER PARTS FOR ASSEMBLY DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Miter-gauge assembly 1
Starter pin 1
Tabletop insert with 1-1/4-in. diameter hole 1
Tabletop insert with 1-7/8-in. diameter hole 1
Tabletop insert with 2-1/8-in. diameter hole 1
‘Z’ Wrench 1
Part list for the router
PARTS FOR ROUTER DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
Router 1
Dust collection with vacuum adaptor and 2 screws 1
Chip guard (assembled to the router) 1
1/4 in. collet sleeve 1
Open-end wrench 1
Heavy-duty edge guide 1
TOOLS NEEDED
The following tools (not included) are needed for assembly or making adjustments.
Phillips Screwdriver
8 Open-end Wrench
Phillips Screwdriver
8 Open-end Wrench

12
kobalttools.com
PREPARATION
KNOW YOUR ROUTER AND ROUTER TABLE
The xed base router is designed to be used only for straight and grooved milling and the forming
of edges in wood or similar materials. Any other uses of the router not described in this manual
could damage the tool or seriously injure the operator and are, therefore, expressly excluded from
approved applications.
The router table has a precision-built electric switch box and it should only be connected to a
120V~ 60Hz power supply (normal household current). DO NOT operate on direct current. The
large voltage drop would cause a loss of power and the motor would overheat. If the router table
does not operate when plugged into a correct outlet, check the power supply. The router table
comes with a 6 ft. (1.8m) power cord with 3-prong, grounded plug.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, do not overload the tool. Let it work at its own pace.
Guide the cord carefully to avoid accidentally cutting it.
PART DESCRIPTION PART DESCRIPTION
A Live-tool indicator P Motor clamp
B ON/OFF toggle switch Q Dust collection
C Handle R Edge-guide mounting slot
D Fixed base S Edge-guide locking knobs
E Motor housing T Edge guide
F Sub-base U Switch box
G Spindle lock button V Integrated safety switch
H Collet/nut W In-feed fence
I Chip guard X Out-feed fence
J Replaceable brush cap Y Feather board
KMicro-ne adjustment dial Z Dust collection and guard
L Above-table depth adjustment nut A1 Vacuum adaptor
M Depth-indicator ring B1 Miter gauge
N Motor-housing key strip C1 Fastening holes
O Coarse-adjustment knob D1 Universal mounting plate
O
N
T
W
Y
V
U
X
Z
YA1
B1
C1
D1
HG
D
B
A
D
C
E
R
S
M
J
K
F
Q
P
I
L

13
kobalttools.com
WARNING: The safe use of this product requires an
understanding of the information on the tool and in this
operator’s manual, as well as knowledge of the project
you are attempting. Before attempting to use any tool, be
sure to become familiar with all of the operating features
and safety rules. Do not allow familiarity with the tool
to cause carelessness. Remember that one careless
moment is enough to cause severe injury.
1. LED worklights
The router motor has 3 built-in worklights, located around
the collet; these provide high visibility of the workpiece
when cutting. These lights are always “on” when the
toggle switch is in the “ON” position.
2. “Live-tool indicator” light
The live-tool indicator light (A) is located on the motor
housing top cap where the power cord enters the motor
housing. This green light is always on when the router
motor is plugged into a power source.
3. Heavy-duty edge guide
The edge guide (T) can be used as an aid in routing
applications such as decorative edging, straight-edge
planing and trimming, grooving, dadoing, and slotting.
To assemble the edge guide onto xed base, simply
insert the edge-guide rods into the edge-guide mounting
slots (R), adjust to the desired position, and lock them in
place with the edge-guide locking knobs (S).
4. Dust collection with a vacuum adaptor
The vacuum adaptor (A1) is sized to accept
a 1-1/4 in. (3.2 cm) vacuum hose adaptor (not included).
To attach the adaptor onto the xed base (D),
position and secure it to the back of the base using the
two screws (included).
5. Chip Guard
WARNING: The chip guard helps keep dust and chips
away from the operator. It will not stop objects larger than
woodchips that are from the bit. The chip guard is not
intended as a safety guard. ALWAYS wear eye protection.
CAUTION: ALWAYS have the chip guard in place on
the base when operating the router.
To remove the chip guard (I) from the xed base (D),
press inward on its tabs until the chip guard releases from
the xed base, and then remove it. To attach the chip
guard, place it back in position, and ex the sides while
pushing it in until it snaps back into place.
1
2
3
4
Tabs
5
A
S
T
D
A1
D

14
kobalttools.com
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR ROUTER
INSTALLING THE ROUTER ASSEMBLY
WARNING: ALWAYS turn the motor off and unplug the router from the power source before
making any adjustments or installing accessories. Failure to turn the motor off and unplug the
router could result in accidental starting, which can cause serious personal injury.
Selecting a cutter bit (available separately)
This router comes with 1/4 in. and 1/2 in. collets that accept cutter bits with 1/4 in. and 1/2 in.
diameter shanks, respectively.
WARNING: Do not use router cutter bits that have a cutter bit diameter larger than 1-1/4 in.,
because they will not t through the sub-base opening, could cause damage to the sub-base and
the motor, and could cause serious personal injury to the operator.
6. Removing the motor from the base
Before a router bit can be inserted, the motor and
housing must rst be removed from the xed base.
a. Use the ON/OFF toggle switch (B) to turn the motor
off. Unplug the tool from the power the source.
b. Place the router (xed base (D)) and motor housing
(E) on a at surface.
c. With the back of the router facing the operator,
loosen the motor clamp (P).
d. Press the coarse-adjustment knob (O) to release the
motor housing key strip (L) from the gear in the base,
while lifting the motor housing free of the base.
6
B
L
O
E
D

15
kobalttools.com
7. Installing the cutter bit
a. Install the 1/4 in. collet, if necessary: If the smaller
collet is necessary to best accommodate the chosen
bit, simply insert the 1/4 in. collet into the 1/2 in. collet/
nut (H) as if it were a bit.
b. Set the motor housing (E) upside down on its top cap,
with the collet pointing up.
c. Press the spindle-lock button (G) to engage and lock
the spindle shaft and collet/nut.
d. Place the open-end wrench on the collet/nut, turn
the collet/nut counter clockwise with the wrench, and
loosen the collet slightly so that it can accept the
cutter bit shank.
e. Insert the cutter bit shank into the collet/nut so that
the cutting surfaces are approximately 1/8 in. to 1/4 in.
away from the face of the collet/nut.
f. With the cutter bit inserted and the spindle-lock button
pressed in to engage the shaft, place the wrench on
the collet/nut and turn it clockwise until the collet is
rmly tightened around the cutter bit.
WARNING: Tighten the collet/nut securely to prevent
the cutter bit from slipping. If the collet/nut is not tightened
securely, the cutter bit may detach during use, causing
serious personal injury.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to tool, do not tighten the
collet without a cutter bit installed.
NOTICE: To ensure proper gripping of the cutter bit
shank and minimize run-out, the shank of the cutter bit
must be inserted at least 5/8 in.(16 mm) into the collet.
8. Installing the router motor in the base
a. With the back of the xed base (D) facing the
operator, loosen the motor clamp (P). Press the
coarse-adjustment knob (O) to disengage the gears.
Aligning the motor housing key strip (N) with the key
strip slot in the xed base. Slide the motor housing (E)
down into the xed base.
b. The motor housing will slide up or down when the
coarse-adjustment knob is pressed in, permitting
coarse adjustments.
c. After all adjustments are made, tighten the motor
clamp securely.
WARNING: Bits, sockets, and tools get hot during
operation. Wear gloves when touching them.
WARNING: ALWAYS remove cutter bits from the
collet when the router is not being used. Leaving bits
installed could result in an accident causing serious personal injury.
7c
8
7a
7b
H
G
E
E
H
G
H
G
E
E
D
O
N
P

16
kobalttools.com
ADJUSTING THE CUTTING DEPTH
WARNING: ALWAYS turn the motor off with the ON/OFF toggle switch (B) and unplug the
router from the power source before any assembly, adjusting or installing accessories, or when it
is not in use. Failure to turn the motor off and unplug the router could result in accidental starting,
which can cause serious personal injury.
The xed base (D) is designed with a micro-ne adjustment worm-gear system. When the bit is
lowered to the approximate desired position (coarse adjustment), the system can then be micro-
adjusted to the precise depth.
NOTICE: All depth adjustments on the xed base must be made with the motor clamp loosened.
9. Coarse Adjustment:
Depress the coarse-adjustment knob (M) to quickly lower
or raise the cutter bit to an approximate depth setting.
10. Micro-ne Adjustments:
Be sure that the worm-gear system is engaged before
making ne adjustments. Test it by turning the micro-
ne adjustment dial (K) clockwise and counterclockwise
to see if the bit lowers and rises. If it does not, press
the coarse-adjustment knob (O) and turn the micro-ne
adjustment dial until the gears engage, and then reset
zero “0” on depth-indicator ring (M).
The depth-indicator ring is marked in 1/64 in. increments.
Turning the micro-ne adjustment dial one full turn
clockwise (360°) – zero “0” to zero “0” – lowers the
bit 1/8 in.
The system allows a maximum of 7 full 360° clockwise
revolutions in order to lower the cutter bit 7/8 in. (22.3 mm).
The depth-indicator ring can be reset to zero “0” without
moving the micro-ne adjustment dial. This allows the user
to begin adjustments from any desired reference point.
9
10
M
K
O
M

17
kobalttools.com
11a
11. Depth-of-Cut Adjustment
a. Place the router assembly on a at, level surface, with
the back of the xed base (D) facing the operator.
b. Loosen the motor clamp (P).
c. With the cutter bit already installed, press the coarse-
adjustment knob (O) and lower the motor into the
base until the cutter bit is very close to the at surface
on which the base is sitting. Turn the micro-ne
adjustment dial (K) until the cutter bit “just” touches
the at surface on which the base is sitting.
d. Place the router assembly such that the sub-base (F)
rests on two level scrap workpieces, positioned so
that the cutter bit can be lowered between the scrap
workpieces and below the sub-base.
e. Turn the depth-indicator ring (K) until the zero “0” is
lined up with the “I” marked on the base.
f. Turn the micro-ne adjustment dial clockwise to lower
the bit to the desired cutting depth.
g. Once the cutting depth is set, tighten the motor clamp
securely.
NOTICE: Making a single deep cut is never advisable.
Smaller diameter cutter bits are easily broken by too
much lateral thrust and torque. Larger cutter bits will
cause a rough cut, and will be difcult to guide and
control. For these reasons, do not exceed 1/8 in. cutting
depth in a single pass.
Deep cuts
a. Determining the proper cutting depth (for each pass) should always be based on the material,
the size and type of cutter bit, and the power of the motor.
b. Always make several progressively deeper cuts, starting at one depth and then making several
passes, increasing the cutting depth each time, until the desired depth is reached.
c. Making a cut that is too deep will put stress on the motor and the cutter bit, and it may burn the
workpiece and dull the cutter bit. It could also “grab” too much of the workpiece and result in
loss of control of the router, causing a serious accident.
d. To be certain that the depth settings are as desired, always make test cuts in scrap material
similar to the workpiece before beginning the nal cut.
e. Remember, knowing the right depth for each cut comes with routing experience.
11b
D
O
K
P
F
K

18
kobalttools.com
FEEDING THE ROUTER
The secret to professional routing is to set-up for the cut carefully, selecting the proper cutting
depth, knowing how the cutter bit reacts in the workpiece, and selecting the appropriate rate and
direction of feed for the router.
12. Direction of feed for external cuts
The cutter bit rotates clockwise. This means that feeding
the bit from left to right will cause the bit to pull the router
toward the workpiece.
If the router is fed in the opposite direction (right to left),
the rotating force of the cutter bit will tend to push the bit
away from the workpiece. This is called “Climb-cutting”.
“Climb-cutting” may cause loss of control, resulting in
possible personal injury. When “climb-cutting” is required
(e.g., backing around a corner), exercise extreme caution
to maintain control of the router.
The high speed of the cutter bit during a proper feeding
operation (left to right) results in very little kickback under normal conditions. However, if the cutter
bit strikes a knot, an area of hard grain in the wooden workpiece, or a foreign object, “kickback”
may result.
Kickback may damage the workpiece and could result in losing control of the router, causing
possible personal injury. Kickback is always in the opposite direction of the clockwise cutter bit
rotation, or counterclockwise. You’re always keeping the sharp edges of the cutter bit biting straight
into uncut wood.
To guard against and help prevent kickback, plan the set-up and direction of feed so that the
sharp edges of the cutter bit continuously bite straight into uncut wood. Also, always inspect the
workpiece for knots, hard grain, and foreign objects that could cause a kickback problem.
13. Direction of feed for internal cuts
When making an internal cut, such as a groove, dado or
slot, always position the guide (edge guide, straight edge,
or board guide) on the right-hand side of the router as the
cut is made.
When the guide is positioned on the right-hand side of the
router, the router travel is from left to right, and “counter-
clockwise” around curves.
This action around the curve could cause “climb-cutting”.
Always be alert and exercise extreme caution in order to
maintain control of the router when making this type of cut
around curves.
When the guide is positioned as shown, the router travel
should be from left to right, and clockwise around curves.
In either case, the lateral thrust of the router cutting is
always against the guide, as is proper.
WARNING: Always clamp the workpiece securely
and keep a rm grip on the router base with both hands
at all times. Failure to do so could result in loss of control,
causing possible serious personal injury.
13a
GUIDE
FEED
BIT
ROTATION THRUST
13b
BIT
ROTATION
GUIDE THRUST
FEED
12
BIT
ROTATION
ROUTER FEED DIRECTION
ROUTER
DIRECTION
FEED BIT
ROTATION
N

19
kobalttools.com
14
Rate of feed
The proper rate of feed depends on several factors: the hardness and moisture content of the
workpiece, the cutting depth, and the cutting diameter of the bit. Use a faster rate of feed when
cutting shallow grooves in soft woods, such as pine. Use a slower rate of feed when making deep
cuts in hardwoods, such as oak.
14. Feeding too quickly
Clean and smooth nished cuts can only be achieved
when the cutter bit is rotating at a relatively high speed,
taking very small bites and producing tiny, clean-cut
chips.
Forcing the feed of the cutter bit forward too quickly slows
the RPM of the cutter bit and the bit takes larger bites as
it rotates. Larger bites mean larger chips and a rougher
nish. This forcing action can also cause the router motor
to overheat.
Under extreme force-feeding conditions, the rotation can
become so slow and the bites so large that chips are only
partially cut off, causing splintering and gouging of the
workpiece.
The router will make clean, smooth cuts if it is allowed to run freely, without the overload of forced
feeding. Forced feeding can be detected by the sound of the motor. The usual high-pitched whine
will sound lower and stronger as it loses speed. Holding the router against the workpiece will also
become more difcult.
15. Feeding too slowly
When the cutter bit is fed too slowly, the rotating cutter
bit does not cut into new wood fast enough to take a
bite. Instead, it scrapes away sawdust-like particles. This
scraping produces heat, which can glaze, burn, and mar
the cut in the workpiece, and in extreme cases, overheat
the cutter bit.
When the cutter bit is scraping instead of cutting, the
router is more difcult to control.
With almost no load on the motor, the cutter bit has
a tendency to bounce off the sides of the cut in the
workpiece, producing a cut that has a rippled nish
instead of clean, straight sides.
15
TOOL SLOW
TOOL FAST

20
kobalttools.com
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR ROUTER
PLACING THE ROUTER ONTO THE WORKPIECE AND STARTING THE CUT
WARNING: Before operating the router, follow all safety instructions in this manual. Failure to
do so could result in serious personal injury.
NOTICE: Making test cuts is essential with most routing applications. A test cut yields information
about the set-up, the speed of the router, the cutting depth and how the cutter bit reacts to the
workpiece.
Much of routing is a trial-and-error process of making various adjustments, followed by test cuts,
while learning all of the router’s operational abilities. To avoid ruining good material, make the test
cuts on scrap material.
For ease of operation and to maintain proper control, the router has two handles, located on either
side of the router base. When operating the router, always hold it rmly with both hands.
WARNING: Always be alert and pay attention to the operation. Never operate the router while
fatigued.
16. Toggle “ON/OFF” Toggle Switch
To turn the motor ON, push the ON/OFF toggle switch (B)
to the “I” for “ON”.
To turn it OFF, push the ON/OFF toggle switch (B)
to the “O” for “OFF”.
Always hold the router and cutter bit away from the
workpiece when turning the toggle switch “ON”.
WARNING: Only allow the router and cutter bit to
come into contract with the workpiece after the router has
reached full speed.
WARNING: Only remove the router and cutter
bit from the workpiece after turning the router motor
“OFF,” and after the cutter bit comes to a complete stop.
Removing the cutter bit from the workpiece while it is still
rotating could damage the workpiece and result in loss of
control, causing serious personal injury.
17. Edge routing
a. With the cutting depth set, place the router on the
edge of the workpiece, making sure that the cutter
does not contact the workpiece.
b. Have an edge guide (board or metal straightedge)
clamped in place to help guide the router’s base when
making an edge cut.
c. Turn the router ON and let the motor attain full speed.
d. To begin the cut, gradually feed the cutter bit into the
edge of the workpiece.
e. When the cut is complete, turn the motor “OFF” and
allow the cutter bit to come to a complete stop before removing it from the workpiece.
f. Unplug the router from the power source, place the router on the worktable, and inspect the
nished cut.
WARNING: Always clamp the workpiece securely and keep a rm grip on the router base with
both hands at all times. Failure to do so could result in loss of control, causing possible serious
personal injury.
WARNING: Removing the cutter bit from the workpiece while it is still rotating could damage the
workpiece and result in loss of control, causing serious personal injury.
16
17
GUIDE
B