Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp 3-1/4 HP Fixed Base 5-Speed Router Description:

• Amazon Sales Rank: #14549 in Home Improvement
• Brand: Porter-Cable
• Model: 7518
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 9.50″ h x 11.25″ w x 13.50″ l, 14.50 pounds

Features

• Gets the toughest routing jobs done with a powerful 3-1/4 HP motor with five-speeds between 10,000 and 21,000 RPM
• Soft-starting feature reduces torque at start-up
• Aluminum motor housing and sealed ball bearing construction increase durability
• Measures 11 x 7 x 11 inches (LxWxH) and weighs 14-1/2 pounds
• Includes fixed base, 1/2-inch collet, collet wrenches, and operating manual

Customer Reviews:

No Faults
According to Pat Warner, this router was specifically designed for use in a table. I’ve had one for about 3 years now, and I can’t really fault it. I’ve never used it handheld; I have other routers for that. The soft-start is really much easier on the nerves. The adjustment mechanism – when it’s clean – is fast and precise, but it does have a problem with sawdust clogging it. I was in the habit of changing bits while the motor was still mounted, but I developed the habit of taking it out to change bits and cleaning the threads on the base before remounting it. The problem of the cord I solved by shortening it to about six inches long and using an extension cord. The best was to do that is to shorten it at the motor end rather than the plug end. The motor is powerful enough to drive a horizontal panel-raising bit at full depth without hesitation. Operator hesitation is another matter though! As per PC practice, the buyer gets two separate collets, one for 1/4″ shanks and the other for 1/2″. The collet is tightened by using two wrenches (supplied) which is more reliable – if more awkward – than the shaft lock used on other makes.

7518 is a very good router
I use my Porter Cable 7518 mounted under a table. The speed control is essential, especially when using large bits. The soft start and relatively quiet operation are big bonuses. The only problem that I have is adjusting the height: This requires the motor to be rotated which can cause dust that is accumulated on top of the motor to become lodged in the threads that adjust the height, causing the mechanism to jam. Once in a while I have to unmount the router, remove the base and thoroughly clean. Otherwise it easily beats other routers I’ve used.

PORTER CABLE 7518 – 5 SPEED ROUTER
THIS ROUTER IS GREAT FOR USING IN A TABLE – PLENTY OF POWER AND THE SPEED IS EXACT – WHEN LOADED, THE SPEED CONTROLLER INCREASES THE SPEED AND HOLDS IT CONSTANT – REGARDLESS OF LOAD – THE ONLY THING THAT I DON’T LIKE IS THAT THE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT REQUIRES YOU TO ROTATE THE HEAD RATHER THAN THE BASE WHICH CAUSES THE POWER CORD TO TWIST – A MINOR PROBLEM – GREAT TOOL!

Amazon.com Product Description
For the toughest routing jobs the professionals turn to the Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp fixed base five-speed router. This powerful router sports a 3-1/4 HP motor that features five speeds between 10,000 and 21,000 RPM. This model’s soft-start feature reduces torque during start-up which is just one of the impressive features the 7518 boasts. Another great feature is the auto-release collet system that allows for quick and easy bit removal. This router not only has an impressive feature-set, but it also is extremely durable. Its sealed ball bearing design keeps the dust out of the vital components and increases durability. The 7518′s also has integrated cast handles for increased stability during operation.

From the Manufacturer
Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp 3-1/4 HP Fixed Base 5-Speed Router