Sears CRAFTSMAN 171.254790 User manual

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SEARS
owners
manual
MODEL NO.
171.254790
CAUTION:
RE D LL
INSTRUCTIONS
C REFULLY
CRAFTSMAN
ROUTER TABLE
FULL FUNCTION/UNITIZED FENCE
• assembly
• operating
61 71
Sold by SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., Chicago, IL 60684 U.S.A.
MADE IN U.S.A. Printed in U.SA. 4-92

•
WARNING: FAILURE TO HEED ALL SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS REGARDING USE
OF THIS PRODUCT CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY.
GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR POWER TOOLS
1. KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL
Read the owner's manual carefully. Learn its applica-
tion and limitations as well as the specific potential
hazards peculiar to this tOQI.
2. GROUND ALL TOOLS (UNLESS
DOUBLE INSULATED)
If tool is equipped with an approved 3-conductor cord
and a3-prong grounding type plug, it should be plugged
into a three hole electrical receptacle. If adapter is used
to accommodate a two-prong receptacle, the adapter
wire must be attached to known ground, (usually the
screw securing receptacle cover plate). Never remove
third prong. Never connect green ground wire to a
terminal.
3. KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE
in working order, and in proper adjustment and
alignment.
4. REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS
AND WRENCHES
Form habit of checking to see that keys and adjust-
ing wrenches are removed from tool before turning
it on.
5. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN
Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents. Floor
must not be slippery due to wax or sawdust.
6. AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENT
Don't use power tools in damp or wet locations or
expose them to rain. Keep work area well lighted.
Provide adequate surrounding work space.
7. KEEP CHILDREN AWAY
All visitors should be kept a safe distance from work
area.
8. MAKE WORKSHOP KID-PROOF
- with padlocks, master switches, or by removing
starter keys.
9. DON'T FORCE TOOL
It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which
it was designed.
10. USE RIGHT TOOL
Don't force tool or attachment to do a job it was not
designed for.
11. WEAR RIGHT APPAREL
Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, neckties or jewelry
(rings, wrist watches) to get caught in moving parts.
Nonslip footwear is recommended. Wear protective
hair covering to contain long hair. Roll long sleeves
above the elbow.
2
12. USE SAFETY GOGGLES (Head Protection)
Wear Safety goggles (must comply with ANS Z87.1)
at all times. Also, use face or dust mask if cutting
operation is dusty, and ear protectors (plugs or muffs)
during extended periods of operation.
13. SECURE WORK
Use clamps or a vise to hold work when practical.
It's safer than using your hand, frees both hands to
operate tool.
14. DON'T OVERREACH
Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
15. MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE
Keeps tools sharp and clean for best and safest per-
formance. Follow instructions for lubricating and
changing accessories.
16. DISCONNECT TOOLS
before servicing; when changing accessories such as
blades, bits, cutters, etc.
17. AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING
Make sure switch is in "OFF" position before plug-
ging in.
18. USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES
Consult the owner's manual for recommended ac-
cessories. Follow the instructions that accompany
the accessories. The use of improper accessories
may cause hazards.
19. NEVER STAND ON TOOL
Serious injury could occur if the tool is tipped or if
the cutting tool is accidentally contacted.
Do not store materials above or near the tool such
that it is necessary to stand on the tool to reach them.
20. CHECK DAMAGED PARTS
Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part
that is damaged should be carefully checked to en-
sure that it will operate properly and perform its
intended function. Check for alignment of moving
parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts,
mounting, and any other conditions that may affect
its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged
should be properly repaired or replaced.
21. DIRECTION OF FEED
Feed work into a blade or cutter against the direction
of rotation of the blade or cutter only.
22. NEVER LEAVE TOOL RUNNING
UNATTENDED
Turn power off. Don't leave tool until it comes to a
complete stop.

GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR tHE ROUTER-fABLE
WITH UNITIZED FENCE.
....
1. ALWAYS USE EYE PROTECTION
The operation of any power tool can result in for-
eign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety •
goggles before commencing power tool operation.
Safety goggles are available at Sears retail or cata-
log stores.
2. KEEPHANDSCLEAR OF BITS, AND WORKING
AREA
3. MAKE AND USE A PUSH STICK TO MOVE
SMALL WORKPIECESACROSSTHE CUTTING
AREA.
4. KEEP ROUTER CLEAN
AFTER EVERY USE, CLEAN SAW DUST OFF
THE ROUTER. (ALSO BLOW OUT INSIDE).
5. YOUR ROUTER TABLE IS PROVIDED WITH A
DUST COLLECTING ATTACHMENT. ALWAYS
USE SHOP VAC. FOR ALL ROUTING OPERA-
TIONS REQUIRING USE OF FRONT SIDE OF
UNITIZED FENCE. (FRONT SIDE IS THE SIDE
WITH THE CRAFTSMAN LABEL).
NOTE: Motors used on wood-working tools are
particularly susceptible to the accumula-
tion of sawdust and wood chips, and
should be blown out, or "vacuumed", fre-
quently to prevent interference with nor-
mal motor ventilation.
6. CHECK FUNCTION OF GUARD BEFORE EACH
USE. REMOVE ALL DUST AND CHIPS FROM
GUARD AREA AS NEEDED TO MAINTAIN
GUARD FUNCTION.
7. NEVER PUT YOUR FINGERS UNDER THE
GUARD WHEN THE ROUTER IS PLUGGED IN.
8. ALWAYS USETHE ROUTERTABLE FENCETO
GUIDE THE WORK. DO NOT WORK FREE
HAND.
When using pilot type bits, keep the fences as close
to the pilot as possible to provide additional backup
and additional guidance and to avoid chances of
an accident and possible personal injury.
9. ALWAYS FEED AGAINST THE ROTATION OF
THE CUTTER WHEN ROUTING ON THE
ROUTER TABLE. FEED WORKPIECES IN THE
DIRECTION OF THE ARROW AS SHOWN ON
THE LABEL ON THE SIDE OF THE FENCE
BEING USED (WHEN FACING THE TABLE
FRONT).
10. FOR ALL EDGE CUTTING AND END CUTTING
OPERATIONS, USEFRONTSIDE OF UNITIZED
FENCE.USEBACK SIDEOFFENCEONLY FOR
ROUTING OPERATIONS AWAY'FROM EDGE
ONTHE UNDERSIDEOFWORKPIECESUCHAS
GROOVING; FLUTING; VEINING; CROWN
MOLDING, ETC.
3
11\ WHEN END CUTTING ON WORKPIECES 4"
WIDE ORLESS, CLAMP AND HOLD AND FEED
THE WORKPIECE WITH THE PUSH BLOCK
USING BOTH HANDS AS SHOWN IN FIG. #27.
KEEPFINGERSCLEAR OF BIT'WHEN MOVING
WORKPIECE ACROSS THE CUTTING AREA.
NEVER PLACE YOUR HANDS LOWER THAN
THE TOP OF RETRACTABLE GUARD.
12. ROUTER BITS AR~ EXTREMELY SHARP.
Be extra careful when working around them.
13. SOME ROUTERS WHEN USED IN AN UPSIDE
DOWN POSITION (SUCH AS ON A ROUTER
TABLE) WILL FALL (OR DROP) OUT OF THE
ROUTER BASE WHEN THE BASE CLAMP IS
LOOSENED. IT IS THEREFOREABSOLUTELY
NECESSARY TO SUPPORT THE ROUTER
MOTOR FROM BELOW WHEN THE BASE
CLAMP IS LOOSENED TO MAKE ADJUST-
MENTs, OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON.
14. ALWAYS LOOK UNDER THE TABLE AT THE
SWITCH WHEN TURNING THE ROUTER
ON/OFF AND TOUCH NOTHING BUT THE
SWITCH. NEVER REACH UNDER THE TABLE
WHEN ROUTERIS RUNNINGFORANY OTHER
REASON.
NOTE: It is far more safe and convenient to use
a "Sears Craftsman ~25182 Router Table
Switch Package". This switch provides a
key operated ON/OFF button which allows
very fast and easy access when and if it
becomes necessary to turn the router
"OFF" quickly. The key can be removed
to render the switch inoperable to unautho-
rized people.
15. ONCE BOTH GUARDS ARE INSTALLED FOR
ROUTING, DO NOT REMOVE THEM FOR ANY
REASON.
16. MOUNT ROUTER TABLE FIRMLY AND
SECURELY TO A WORK SURFACE BEFORE
USE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD CAUSE
TABLE TO TIP OVERORSLIDE DURINGOPER-
ATION RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE
AND/OR SERiOUS BODILY INJURY.
17. WARNING:
BEFOREMAKING ANY CUT, UNPLUGROUTER
AND RETRACT GUARD TO MAKE ABSO-
LUTELY SURE THAT RETRACTABLE GUARD
CLEARS THE ROUTER BIT, AND THE GUARD
IS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY. SEE FIG. #19.
18. WARNING:
ROUTER VIBRATIONS SOMETIMES CAN
CAUSE FASTENERS FOR l:HE TABLE, THE
ROUTER AND THE UNITIZED FENCE TO GET
LOOSE PERIODICALLY CHECK FASTENERS
TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE TIGHT AND
SECURE.

INTRODUCTION
How often have you needed a large guiding surface on
a router table? Your Sears Craftsman Router Table with
Unitized Fence comes with:
a. A unique 4" high unitized fence designed to assist
for end grain routing for making tenons, sliding
dovetails and tongue and groove joints along with
most edge and face cutting operations.
b. A specially designed push blo€k with quick clamp
for back up and clamping boards up to 4" width for
end grain routing.
e. Two guards for operation on either side of the uni-
tized fence.
f. Dust collecting attachment for most shop vac. hook
ups.
If order to facilitate handling and minimize any damage
that might occur during shipment, your new router table
is packaged unassembled. We know you are anxious
to see what your new tool will do, but a few minutes
spent now carefully reading the following instructions,
will result in less frustration and more enjoyable opera-
tion later.
c. An accurate and quick adjusting jointing fence
adjustable to proper jointing depth of cut.
d. Reversing feature of unitized fence designed to
enable routing operations like grooving; fluting;
veining; crown molding etc. up to 21/2 away from
the edge towards the middle of the board.
Start by checking and accounting for all the loose parts.
If any parts are missing, contact your local Sears retail
or catalog outlet for replacement.
UNPACKING AND
CHECKING CONTENTS
Refer to Parts List on Page 16
WARNING
YOU MUST READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL THE INSTRUCTIONS COMPLETELY BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
ASSEMBLE AND OPERATE YOUR ROUTERI ROUTER TABLE.
ASSEMBLY OF TABLE
1. Turn the table upside down.
6. Turn the table right side up and tighten all 16
screws and nuts with a screwdriver and wrench or
pliers.
4
Center Ring
Fig. #2
MOUNTING ROUTER TO TABLE
1. Remove the router base plate (back plate) from the
router.
2. While holding the router upside down, position it
to the underside within the center ring of the table
top as shown in Fig. #2.
ATTACHING SEARS ROUTERS WITH THREE HOLE
BASE PLATES.
ALWAYS UNPLUG ROUTER BEFORE MOUNTING
(The table will accept Sears routers with bases up to
6" in diameter).
(blerO
p
Leg
Fig. #1
#10-32 Hex Nut
#10 Lock Washer
4. Lightly tighten the nuts and lock washers on each
screw. The lock washers should be against the
inside of the leg.
5. Repeat for the remaining three legs.
3. Insert the 10-32 x 5/8 machine screws through the
table top and leg.
2. Place one of the table legs in one corner of the table
as shown in Fig. #1.
#10-32 x 5/8"
Pan Head Screw

Jointing Fence
Fig. #6
Unitized Fence
ASSEMBLY OF RETRACTABLE GUARD TO UNI-
TIZED FENCE
Hex Recess
To remove the insert, place the point of a small screw-
driver into the slot (with the small tang) and pry the insert
out of the router table.
WARNING: BEFORE ASSEMBLING AND ATTACH-
ING UNITIZED FENCE TO TABLE
MAKE SURE THAT ROUTER IS
UNPLUGGED AND THE BIT IS BELOW
THE TOP SURFACE OF THE TABLE.
ASSEMBLY OF UNITIZED FENCE
When knob is loosened, the jointing fence can slide back
and forth in the cavity for proper jointing adjustment.
ASSEMBLY OF JOINTING FENCE TO UNITIZED
FENCE
Hex Head Bolt
Fig. #5
1. Place the unitized fence upside down on a flat sur-
face as shown in Fig. #6.
1. Slide jointing fence through rectangular opening
in the cavity provided on the unitized fence (ribs
on the unitized fence will slide in the grooves on
the underside of jointing fence). See Fig. #5.
2. Insert 1/4-20 x 1" long nex head bolt through the
hole in the unitized fence (fron the underside) and
the slot in the jointing fence.
3. While holding the head of the bolt in the hex recess
on the underside of unitized fence, place a flat
washer over the bolt and screw small 1/4-20 knob
on bolt.
5
9/32 1.0. x 3/4 0.0.
Flat Washer
Table Top
I
,
Use Thumb Pressure to
Snap Table Insert
Into Position
3. Rotate the router until the three mounting holes in
the router base line up with three of the holes in
the table top. (It will be helpful ifyou orient the router
such that you can easily reach the ON/OFF switch
from the front of the table. Sears Craftsman
~5182 Router Table Switch Package provides
easy access to ON/OFF button).
4. Insert three #10.32 x 3/8" long flat head machine
screws (provided) through holes in the table top
(See Fig. #3) and tighten securely into the router
base.
Fig. #3
SELECTING AND INSTALLING
TABLE INSERTS
With the desired bit in the router, select a table insert
which has a center hole slightly larger than the diameter
of the router bit. Note: For bits larger than approximately
1 3/8" diameter, do not use an insert.
The table inserts were designed to be snapped into the
router table. Slide the large tang under the edge of the
large hole in the router table as shown in Fig. #4. Using
your thumb, press down on the insert until the small tang
snaps into position.
Table Front
Use Screwdriver to
Remove Table Insert

Table
Front side of
Unitized Fence
Back side of
Unitized Fence
(Fence Cut Away for Clarity)
1. Assemble unitized fence assembly to table as
shown in Fig. #10.
NOTE: If the guard does not retract out freely,
loosen screw just enough until it does
retract out freely and snaps back to nor-
mal forward position by itself.
6. Turn the unitized fence right side up.
ATTACHMENT OF UNITIZED FENCE ASSEMBLY TO
TABLE
ALWAYS UNPLUG ROUTER BEFORE ATTACHING
FENCE TO AND REMOVING FROM TABLE.
1/4-20
Large Knob
'\,
9/32 1.0. x 3/4 0.0. t
FlatWashe~
Slot
Formed End of Spring
Fig. #7
2. Orient the retractable guard as shown in Fig. #7.
Position and hold the spring over its hub such that
formed end of spring wraps over the guard as
shown in Fig. #7.
Straight Leg Spring
I
3. While holding the spring over the hub and formed
end over the guard, position and press the straight
leg of spring against surface 'X' to align hole in hub
over boss on unitized fence (see Fig. #8). Slip the
guard over the boss. Spring will now be trapped
between the guard and the fence. (Spring diameter
is bigger than the hub diameter. You will need to
use both hands to hold spring in proper position).
Fig. #8
4. Tightly secure retractable guard in place using self
threading #8-10 x 9/16" long pan head plasform
screw and a flat washer as shown in Fig. #9.
5. Swing guard a few times in the direction of arrow
to see that it retracts out freely by itself and returns
to its normal position over the router table hole. See
Fig. #9.
Unitized Fence
Properly Assembled
Spring
Retractable Guard
6
Fig. #10
2. Insert one of the 1/4-20 x 13/4" long hex head bolts
through the hole in the table top (from the under-
side) and the slot in the fence.
3. While holding the head of the bolt in the hex recess
on the underside of the tabletop, place a flat washer
over the bolt and install a large 1/4-20 knob onto
the bolt to loosely secure the fence.
4. Repeat for. the other slot.
NOTE: The unitized fence assembly can be
attached to table with either side facing the
front. To use other side, just remove the
knobs and turn the fence around.
ASSEMBLY OF PUSH BLOCK
1. Screw the small end of clamp rod into threaded
hole in clamp plate until the plate bottoms on its
shoulder (make sure clamp plate is oriented such
that letter 'C' is facing outwards as shown in Fig.
#11).

Slot
Guard
Unitized Fence
Face of Unitized Fence
Fig. #13
3. Hold the guard against this slot, straighten it into
a vertical position and, insert the opposite tab into
the mating slot. See Fig. #13.
b. Occasional application of furniture spray
wax on sliding surfaces of PUSH BLOCK
ONLY will greatly improve the sliding
motion.
2. While holding the guard at a slight angle as shown,
insert tab on one side of guard into hole inside the
slot on fence.
1. Assemble guard to unitized fence as shown in Fig.
#13.
NOTE: a. Remove dust and chips from sliding sur-
faces of push block and unitized fence as
needed to maintain good sliding motion.
FOR ROUTING ON ENDS (TENONS, SLIDING DOVE-
TAILS, ETC.) WORKPIECE IS HELD AGAINST FACE
OF UNITIZED FENCE AND CLAMPED BETWEEN
CLAMP PLATE AND SURFACE'S' OF PUSH BLOCK.
SEE FIG. #12a.
Fig. #12b
ASSEMBL Y OF GUARD TO UNITIZED FENCE
Pivot Guard --__
Back and Forth
7
Washer
Push Block
Fig. #11
Groove
Surface'S'
Retaining Rib
Sliding Surfaces
Face of Unitized Fence
Clamp Plate
MOUNTING PUSH BLOCK ASSEMBLY ON UNITIZED
FENCE
Clamp plate when free, tries to swing in the direction
of arrow (See Fig. #12a) due to its weight.
2. Tightly secure clamp plate to clamp rod using 1/4"
helical lock washer and a hex nut.
1/4" Helical Lock Washer
Clamp Plate Swings
This Direction
WARNING: ROUTER VIBRATIONS SOME-
TIMES CAN CAUSE 1/4-28 HEX
NUT AND CLAMP PLATE TO GET
LOOSE PERIODICALLY CHECK
FASTENERS AND CLAMP PLATE
TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE TIGHT
AND SECURE.
Fig. #12a
1. Mount push block assembly on the unitized fence
by supporting clamp plate against the face of the
fence (Fig. #12b) and aligning retaining rib on push
block with the groove in the face of unitized fence.
See figures #12a and #12b.
2. Slide push block assembly back and forth along
entire length of unitized fence to see that it slides
freely.
3. Insert the opposite threaded end of clamp rod
through hole in push block and install a flat washer
and a wing nut on to it. See Fig. #11.
5/16-18" Wing Nut
~~
1/4-28 Hex Nut

4. Pivot guard back and forth a few times to make sure
that it moves freely.
NOTE: Once the guard has been installed, do not
remove it for any reason.
DUST COLLECTING ATTACHMENT
4. Lower guard and let it rest on the vac hose.
NOTE: For maximum suction efficiency, stick a
piece of tape or use a piece of scrap wood
to cover up the opening in the rear of the
fence as shown in Figures 14a and 14b.
Uncover opening after use.
Work Surface
WARNING: OPERATING ROUTER TABLE WITH-
OUT USE OF SHOP VAC. MAY RESULT
IN EXCESSIVE COLLECTION OF SAW
DUST AND CHIPS UNDER THE FENCE
AND THE RETRACTABLE GUARD
AREA.
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, ALWAYS UNPLUG THE
ROUTER AND CHECK FUNCTION OF GUARD
BEFORE EACH USE. REMOVE DUST AND CHIPS
FROM GUARD AREA AS NEEDED TO MAINTAIN
GUARD FUNCTION. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN.
REMOVE UNITIZED FENCE FROM TABLE (MAKE
SURE ROUTER IS UNPLUGGED) TO CLEAR DUST
AND CHIPS TRAPPED BETWEEN FENCE AND
TABLE TOP.
FOR OPERATIONS REQUIRING USE OF BACK-
SIDE OF UNITIZED FENCE, DO NOT CONNECT
SHOP VAC. AS IT WILL HINDER OPERATION.
THE BACKSIDE OF FENCE IS ONLY FOR CUT-
TING OPERATIONS ON THE UNDERSIDE OF
WORKPIECE. THE WORKPIECE DURING SUCH
OPERATIONS COMPLETELY COVERS THE
ROUTER BIT AND THE DUST CANNOT BE
VACUUMED.
/
Table Leg
MOUNTING THE ROUTER TABLE
THE ROUTER TABLE MUST ALWAYS BE FIRMLY
AND SECURELY MOUNTED TO A WORK SURFACE
BEFORE USE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD CAUSE
TABLE TO TIP OVER OR SLIDE RESULTING IN
PROPERTY DAMAGE AND/OR SERIOUS PERSONAL
INJURY.
Each leg has (2) holes at the bottom for mounting. Firmly
secure router table to work surface using appropriate
fasteners (not provided) as shown in Fig. #15.
Fig. #14a
~ Back Side of
/ ~ ruzed Fence
2 1/2" Dia. Hose
Tape
1. Raise guard and lean it against the fence.
2. Attach 2 1/2" hose diameter nozzle as shown in
Fig. #14a.
3. Attach 1 1/4" hose diameter nozzle as shown in
Fig. #14b.
1 1/4" Dia. Hose ----_~
FOR ALL OPERATIONS REQUIRING USE OF FRONT-
SIDE OF UNITIZED FENCE, connect shop vac as
follows:
Unitized fence is provided with a hookup for most Sears
Craftsman 2 1/2" and 1 1/4" hose diameter vacs.
Tape
Fig. #14b
8
Fig. #15

For added versatility, secure the table to a piece of 1/2"
or thicker plywood which can be "C" clamped to your
work surface.
ASSEMBL V OF MITER GAUGE
WHEN ROUTING, ALWAYS FEED AGAINST THE
ROTATION OF THE CUTTER. FEED WORKPIECE IN
THE DIRECTION OF ARROW AS SHOWN ON THE
LABEL ON THE SIDE OF THE FENCE BEING USED
(when facing the table front).
Assemble protractor head to miter bar as shown in Fig.
#16.
r
I
3/16" Dia. x 5/8"
Grooved Pin
(Assembled)
Protractor Head
'~
Fig. #16
Knob
#10 Flat Washer
#10-32 Hex Nut
The unitized fence on your table is provided as a guide
against which the workpiece should be held for accuracy
in routing. Free hand routing (not holding work against
the fence) is hazardous and should be strictly avoided.
Shop vac. with either 2 1/2" diameter or 1 1/2" diameter
hose nozzle should be connected to the dust collection
attachment when using the router table.
ADJUSTING DEPTH AND HEIGHT OF CUT
In order to retract the guard and have full access to the
router bit for making adjustments, select a board that
is smooth with its edges and ends true to each other
and its surfaces and:
1. Mark lines 'A' and 'B' on the end of this board. Line
'A' for desired depth of cut (amount of material you
want to remove) and line 'B' for desired cutting
height. See Fig. #18.
ALIGNMENT OF UNITIZED FENCE
TO MITER BAR SLOT
1. Measure distance from each end of unitized fence
to edge 'E' of miter bar slot on the table as shown
in Fig. #17. If both distances are the same, the
fence is parallel to miter bar slot. If not, loosen large
knobs and adjust fence accordingly. Tighten both
knobs.
2. Clamp this board against the face of the fence with
edge resting on table top and end marked with lines
'A' and 'B' close to the bit. See Fig. #18. (This will
retract guard inside fence and provide access to
the bit for making adjustments. MAKE SURE
ROUTER IS UNPLUGGED WHEN CLAMPING
BOARD AND MAKING ADJUSTMENTS).
Large Knobs
(Retractable Guard not Shown for
Clarity)
Board
. \
Face of the Fence
Outermost Cutting Edge
Unitized Fence
Edge 'E'
Fig. #17
Feed Miter Guage in
Direction Shown by Arrow
2. Position miter gauge on table as shown in Fig. #17.
Scale
OPERATION - ROUTING USING
FRONTSIDE OF UNITIZED FENCE
ALWAYS UNPLUG THE ROUTER BEFORE MAKING
ANY SETTING, ADJUSTMENTS, OR CHANGING
BITS.
Fig. #18
3. Loosen both large knobs that allow movement of
fence and move fence forward and backward until
outermost cutting edge of router bit is aligned with
line 'A'. Tighten both knobs.
9

4. Raise or lower the router until top cutting edge of
bit is aligned with line 'B'. (Refer to your router's
owner's manual for adjusting your router properly) .•
AFTER MAKING THIS ADJUSTMENT, BE SURE
ROUTER IS SECURELY TIGHTENED IN THE
ROUTER BASE, THE BIT IS SECURELY TIGHT-
ENED IN THE ROUTER CHUCK, AND ROUTER
BASE IS TIGHTLY SECURED TO TABLE TOP.
5. Remove the board from the fence.
described before. (MAKE SURE ROUTER IS
UNPLUGGED WHEN MAKING ADJUSTMENTS).
3. Check your adjustments by turning the router 'ON'
and feeding a piece of scrap wood a few inches
beyond router bit. Then stop and turn router 'OFF'.
NOTE: Feed work in the direction of arrow shown
on label on the frontside of unitized fence
(when facing table front).
WARNING: WHEN ADJUSTING HEIGHT OF
ROUTER BIT FOR ANY DESIRED
CUT, MAKE ABSOLUTELY CER-
TAIN THAT TOP OF BIT IS BELOW
THE INSIDE SURFACE OF
RETRACTABLE GUARD AS
SHOWN IN FIG. #19. CHECK TO
SEE THAT GUARD RETRACTS
FREELY IN AND OUT OF FENCE TO
ITS NORMAL POSITION OVER THE
ROUTER TABLE HOLE. DO NOT
OPERATE ROUTER IF ANY PART
OF THE BIT CONTACTS THE
GUARD.
Top of Bit
Inside Surface of
Retractable Guard
Fig. #19
NOTE: The procedure described above is
intended to provide a way of retracting and
holding the guard to have full access to the
router bit for making adjustments. Work-
piece to be routed could be substituted for
the scrap board for making adjustments.
4. Loosen knob on jointing fence and move it out,
flush against the finished edge of scrap wood.
Retighten the knob. See Fig. #20.
(Retractable Guard not Shown for
Clarity)
-'.::::::::=::::;;
Face of
Jointing Fence
Finished Edge Fig. #20
5. Repeat the test cut on the scrap wood. Table Front
6. The router table is now ready for use.
NOTE: For best jOinting results, take very shallow
cuts - 1132 or less.
USING ROUTER TABLE FOR EDGE CUTTING WITH
NON-PILOTED BITS
1. Position the jointing fence such that its face is flush
with the face of unitized fence. Tighten small knob
on jointing fence. See Fig. #21.
Feed Workpiece in
Direction of Arrow
r
USING ROUTER TABLE AS JOINTER (FULL EDGE
CUTTING)
For maximum strength and accuracy, boards to be
jointed together should be smooth and true. The edges
should be true to the workpiece surface. You can true
the edges on your router table using a straight bit.
1. Check to see if face of jointing fence is flush with
the face of unitized fence. If not, loosen small knob
on jointing fence and push jointing fence inside the
cavity in unitized fence. Tighten knob on jointing
fence.
NOTE: The jointing fence provides a continuous
support for the workpiece, as it is fed
beyond the router bit. It compensates for
the gap created by the removal of mate-
rial by the router bit.
2. Adjust depth of cut (material you want to remove)
and router bit height as described before for Fig.
#18. Tightly secure the fence and the router as
10
Retractable Guard Fig. #21
Large Knobs
Table Front
1

2. Adjust depth of cut (material you want to remove)
and router bit height as described before. Tighten
both large knobs to lock fence on table. Tightly
secure the router. (MAKE SURE ROUTER IS
UNPLUGGED WHEN MAKING ADJUSTMENTS).
3. Test cut a piece of scrap wood to make sure your
adjustments are satisfactory.
NOTE: Feed work in the direction of arrow shown
on label on frontside of unitized fence
(when facing table front).
NOTE: If you have purchased RAIL AND STILE
CUTTERS (Sears Craftsman ~21257) for
making cabinet door frames on your router
table, MAKE SURE THAT FRAME THICK-
NESS is not more than 3/4". Ifframe thick-
ness is more than 3/4", the top of the bit,
as shown in Fig. 'A' of Rail and Stile Cut-
ters instructions, will interfere with retract-
able guard on your unitized fence. See Fig.
#24 and Fig. #19. .- Top of Bit
EXAMPLE: CUTTING TENONS
Fig. #24
USING ROUTER TABLE FOR END CUTTING
When routing on ends of workpiece for making tenons,
sliding dovetails and tongue and groove joints, the work-
piece must be made smooth with both edges and ends
made true to each other and its surfaces.
NOTE: The push block and clamp plate assembly will
not accommodate workpiece wider than 4".
Door Frame Thickness
Must Not Be More
than 3/4"
Unitized Fence in
Edge Cutting Mode
NOTE: If you have purchased a MOLD MAKER
BIT SET (Sears Craftsman ~21255) for
making moldings on your router table, set
the unitized fence in EDGE CUTTING
MODE for making the first cut on your
workpiece using Bit #25527. See Fig. #22.
4. The router table is now ready for use.
Router Table Top
Router Bit #25527
Wing Nut
Un. 'B' I
Push Block
Outermost
Cutting Edge
Max. Width 4"
Edge of Table Top Hole
1. Make certain that jointing fence is locked in posi-
tion with its face flush with that of unitized fence.
2. Mount push block assembly on unitized fence as
shown before in Figs. #12a and #12b.
3. Install proper table insert into the table top hole.
4. Mark lines' A' and' B' on the edge of the workpiece
close to the end to be cut. Line 'A' for FULL DEPTH
OF CUT (total amount of material you want to
remove) and line 'B' for FULL DESIRED HEIGHT
OF TENON. See Fig. #25.
Workpiece Side Flush
Against Face of
Unitized Fence
Piloted Bit
Feed Workpiece in
Direction of Arrow
Fig. #23 Table Front 11
1. Position the jointing fence in the same manner as
with non-piloted bits.
2. Move the unitized fence back only enough to per-
mit the pilot to control the cutting depth. Position-
ing the unitized fence as close to the pilot as
possible will serve as a back-up, and will help pre-
vent chances of an accident, and possible personal
injury. See Fig. #23.
WITH PILOTED TYPE BITS Fig. #22
When bits with pilots are used to control the cutting
depth:
ctable Guard not Shown for
. )

~ 7.
3/8" Max. Depth of Cut
WARNING: DO NOT SET DEPTH OF CUT
MORE THAN 3/8 (FIG. #26). IF
DEPTH OF CUT IS MORE THAN
3/8 I THE EDGE 'E' OF WORK-
PIECE WHEN SLIDING ACROSS
WILL INTERFERE WITH PORTION
'P' OF GUARD. THE GUARD THEN
WILL NOT RETRACT lNSIDE
FENCE AND HENCE YOU WILL
NOT BE ABLE TO SLIDE WORK-
PIECE ACROSS THE BIT TO MAKE
THE CUT. SEE FIG. #27.
Fig. #26
Portion 'P'
o
Fig. #27
5. Position workpiece between clamp plate and push
block such that its side is held flush against face
of the unitized fence, the end to be cut is resting
on the edge of the table top hole and edge marked
with lines 'A' and 'B' is facing the router bit. 91amp
workpiece in this position by snugly tightening the
wing nut on clamp rod while making sure that
clamp plate stays oriented on workpiece as shown
in Fig. #25. (This will retract guard inside the fence
and provide access to the bit for making adjust-
ments. MAKE SURE ROUTER IS UNPLUGGED
WHEN POSITIONING AND CLAMPING WORK-
PIECE AND MAKING ADJUSTMENTS).
12
NOTE: Tighten wing nut just enough to clamp
workpiece in position. OVERTIGHTEN-
ING wing nut could cause binding in the
sliding motion of push block which in turn
may result in variations andlor steps in the
finished tenon surface when cut. See Fig.
#29.
6. Slide workpiece close to the bit and adjust unitized
fence and the router as described before so that
outer most cutting edge of bit is aligned with line
'A' and top cutting edge of bit is aligned with line
'B'. See Fig. #25. Tightly secure the fence and the
router as described before in ADJUSTING DEPTH
AND HEIGHT OF CUT.
Slide push block and therefore workpiece back to
let guard swing out to its normal position as shown
in Fig. #27.
8. Turn router and shop vac 'ON'. While holding push
block and GUIDING WORKPIECE AGAINST
FENCE with both hands (Fig. #27) and FINGERS
AT SAFE DISTANCE ABOVE GUARD AND SPIN-
NING BIT, feed workpiece across the bit to make
FULL DEPTH OF CUT IN ONE PASS. (DO NOT
STOP FEED UNTIL WORKPIECE IS FAR
ENOUGH BEYOND SPINNING BIT TO ALLOW
GUARD TO RETRACT OUT FULLY TO ITS NOR-
MAL POSITION).
NOTE: Clamp and test cut a piece of scrap wood
to check your adjustments before making
your finished cut.
9. Turn router and shop vac 'OFF'. Unclamp work-
piece, and slide push block back.
10. Position and clamp the opposite side of workpiece
in the same manner as described in Step #5 (make
sure the wing nut istight just enough to clamp work-
piece in position and end to be cut is resting on the
edge of table top hole). Repeat steps #7, #8, and
#9.
11. To cut ends of the tenon, position and clamp work-
piece in the same manner as in step #5 above
except edge of workpiece should be held flush
against face of fence and end to be cut should be
resting on edge of table top hole. See Fig. #28.
Repeat steps #7, #8, #9, and #10.
Edoe of Workpiece Flush Against
Face of Unitized Fence
W
\ .
Edge of Table Top H

,;,;,--
NOTE: When cutting tenons, always clamp work-
piece with end to be cut resting on edge
of table top hole. This will minimize steps
in finished tenon surface (Fig. #29) due to
variations in the table top flatness.
Steps in Finished
Tenon Surface
Fig. #29
WARNING: ALWAYS CUT FULL DEPTH ON
ALL 4 SIDES OF TENON IN ONE
PASS ACROSS THE BIT. ONCE
THE SIDES ARE CUT AND IF
STEPS OR OTHER IMPERFEC-
TIONS ARE NOTICED ON FIN-
ISHED TENON SURFACE, CLEAN
THEM WITH WOOD CHISEL, SAND
PAPER OR FILE, ETC. DO NOT TRY
TO CLEAN THEM BY RE-SETTING
WORKPIECE ON ROUTER TABLE
AND FENCE. WORKPIECE MAY
INTERFERE WITH GUARD (SEE
FIG. #27 ABOVE) WHICH IN TURN
WILL PREVENT IT FROM SLIDING
ACROSS THE BIT.
OPERATION - ROUTING USING
BACKSIDE OF UNITIZED FENCE
USE BACKSIDE OF FENCE ONLY FOR ROUTING
OPERATIONS AWAY FROM EDGE ON THE UNDER-
OF WORKPIECE SUCH AS GROOVING; FLUT-
VEINING; CROWN MOLDING, ETC.
JaIMVS UNPLUG THE ROUTER BEFORE MAKING
MY lETTING, ADJUSTMENTS, OR CHANGING
BITS.
WHEN ROUTING ALWAYS FEED AGAINST THE
ROTATION OF THE CUTTER. FEED WORKPIECE IN
THE DIRECTION OF ARROW AS SHOWN ON LABEL
ON THE SIDE OF FENCE BEING USED (when facing
the table front).
13
."..-.
DO NOT CONNECT SHOP VAC. WHEN USING BACK-
SIDE OF FENCE. THE HOSE WILL HINDER
OPERATION,
For maximum accuracy, one edge of your workpiece
(edge sliding against the fence) must be true and
straight. Set up your fence as follows:
1. Remove both large knobs and 1/4-20 x 1 3/4" Ig.
hex head bolts, turn the unitized fence around and
attach it back to table with backside of fence fac-
ing the table front. See Fig. #30. (MAKE SURE
ROUTER IS UNPLUGGED WHEN REMOVING
AND ATIACHING FENCE TO TABLE).
Back Side of Unitized Fence
Table Front Fig. #30
2. Raise guard and let it lean against the fence.
3. Position the fence behind the router bit for the
desired cutting depth (the distance of the cut from
the edge of the workpiece, as shown in Fig. #31).

~>-
'.. --
1M'
Max. Cutting Depth 2 1/2"
Cutting Depth Table Top
Workpiece
Back Side of
Unitized Fence
Router Bit
NOTE: When routing deep cuts (controlled by
router bit) in a workpiece, remove mate-
rial in increments to prevent your router
from overloading. Repeat operation with
several passes until the desired depth is
achieved.
PROTR CTOR
Your protractor will serve as a handy aid when extra sup-
port is needed for routing small workpieces or ends of
large workpieces. See Fig. #33.
Fig. #31
4. Securely tighten both knobs and LOWER THE
GUARD OVER THE BIT.
5. Make the cut by sliding straight edge of workpiece
against the fence. Use a push stick as shown in
Fig. #32. (For each successive cut, the fence would
need to be readjusted).
NOTE: Test cut a piece of scrap wood before mak-
ing your finish cut. Feed workpiece in the
direction of arrow shown on fence label
(Fig. #32).
Workpiece
Fig. #33 Miter Bar Slot
Feed Workpiece in the Direction
of Arrow Shown 01) this Label
Table Front
Fig. #32
14
NOTE: FOR ALL ROUTING OPERATIONS REQUIR-
ING USE OF MITER GAUGE ALONG WITH
THE FENCE, BE SURE TO ALIGN FENCE
WITH MITER BAR SLOT BEFORE MAKING
ANY CUTS. SEE FIG. #17.

---
Woodworker s Notes
15
l

34
39
Il~
t5~
j
33
\
36
i
I 28
lj\,
12
14
---. ARTS LIST FOR CRAFTSMAN ROUTER TABLE
MODEL NO. 171.254790
I
I
l
Key Key
No. Pert No. Description Quen. No. Pert No. Description Quen.
131L-431 Router Table Top 121 29L-648 Push Block 1
231L-429 Table Leg 422 29L-651 Clamp Rod 1
*3'.•
F29A-306-14 Aat Washer
9132 1.0. x 3140.0. 323 29L.652 Clamp Plate 1
*4 F29A-489-3 Hex HO Bolt 1/4-20 x 1 314 Ig. 2*24 F.29A.246-12 Hex HcI. Bolt 1/4-20 xl" Ig. 1
*5
•
F29A-242.2 Hel . Mach. Screw Nut '10-32 17 25 29L-654 Spring 1
631L.559 Miter Bar 1 *26 F.29A-252-8 Wing Nut 5/16-18 1
-
731L-438 Pointer 1*27 F.29A-306-27 5/16 Flat Washer 1
.8 F29A-264-8 Pan Hd. Mach. Screw '10-32 x 5/16 1 *28 29A-264-7 Pan Hd. Mach. Screw '10-32 x 5/8Ig. 16
929L.183 Grooved Pin 3116 dia. x 518 type 0 1*29 F.29A-327-3 1/4" Lock Washer (Helical) 1
.
10 29L.293 Protractor Head 1*30 F-29A-306-26 '8 Flat Washer 3116 1.0. x 1/20.0. 1
11 31L.560 Knob 1*31 F-29A-653 '8-10 x 9/16 Lg. Pan Hd. Plaslorm Screw 1
12 29L.202 Plastic Insert 532 29L-660 1/4.20 KnO~ (large) 2
*13 29A.298-13 Flat Hd. Mach. Screw 1/10-32 x 318 333 29L-659 1/4-20 Knob (small) 1
*14 29A.509-1 1/10 Lock Wasfler 16 34 45A.289 Label (Self Adhesive) 1
.15 29A-306-15 '10 Flat Washer 1 35 45A.290 Label (Self Adhesive) 2
18 29A.310-5 Carriage Bolt '10-24 x 314 Ig. 136 45A-297 Label (Self Adhesive) 1
17 291..~ Unitized Fence 137 29L-655 Vacuum Hose Reducer 1
18 29L-650 Guard 138' F29A.242-8 Hex Nut 1/4-28 1
19 291..-647 Guard (Retractable) 1 39 45A.292 Label (Self Adhesive) 1
20 291..-649 Jointing Fence 1
*Hardware item - may be purchased locally.
16