Routers have interchangeable motors and bases.

Press Release Summary:

Model DW616K, 1¾ hp, 11 A fixed-base router, and Model DW618K 2¼ hp, 12 A electronic variable-speed, fixed-base router, with soft start and spindle lock, are offered with fixed, plunge, and D-handle modular bases. Adjustable motor cam lock eliminates need for tools to change bases or set cut depth. Micro-Fine Depth Adjustment Ring with 1/64 in. increments allows for minute depth adjustments while keeping cordset and switch in fixed position.

Original Press Release:

New DeWALT Routers with Interchangeable Motors and Base System Offer Best Combination of Accuracy, Power, and Versatility

BALTIMORE, August 2002-DEWALT is introducing a new router system featuring a pair of heavy-duty motor packs and three interchangeable base options for woodworkers, cabinet makers, furniture makers, trim carpenters, countertop fabricators and other craftspeople who want a combination router package with accuracy, power, and versatility. DEWALT's new router system is expected to be available around October and includes:
- 1-¾ HP (max motor HP) 11-Amp fixed-base router
- 2-¼ HP (max motor HP) 12-Amp electronic variable speed fixed-base router with soft start
- 3 modular router bases consisting of a fixed base, plunge base, and D-handle base
- 2 complete fixed-base/plunge-base router combination kits Fixed-Base Routers (replaces the previous DW610 model) DEWALT's new router system features the DW616K 1-¾ HP (max motor HP) 11-Amp fixed-base router, and the DW618K 2-¼ HP (max motor HP), 12-Amp electronic variable speed fixed-base router with soft start and spindle lock. Both models have ample power to cut smoothly through tough hardwoods with precision and superior quality of cut. To enhance accuracy, DEWALT's Micro-Fine Depth Adjustment Ring with 1/64" increments allows for minute depth adjustments while keeping the cordset and switch in a fixed position. For convenience, an adjustable motor cam lock eliminates the need for tools to change bases or set the cut depth. And with the quick-release motor latches on the base, it's easy to remove the motor pack for quick bit changes in or out of a router table. In addition, the router's tactile over-molded rubber handles, low center-of-gravity design, and flat-sided motor housing provide excellent tool balance and operator control. For durability, the motor housing and base are made of precision-machined, heavy-duty die-cast aluminum. Nickel-plating on the motor housing ensures a smooth depth adjustment. A sealed industrial toggle switch prevents dust contamination while the detachable cordset allows the motor pack to interchange with all the bases and makes router storage and cordset serviceability easy. Other convenient features include the clear, Lexan sub-base for durability and cutting visibility, and a concentricity gauge to ensure consistent bit accuracy with the sub-base. New Plunge Base and Combination Fixed-Base / Plunge-Base Router Kits As part of the system, DEWALT added a plunge base (DW6182) that works with both motors. Tool-free base changing makes it easy to swap motors and bases for different router applications. Patented "through the column" dust extraction removes 95% of the dust for better cutting visibility and dust collection. Machined brass bushings in the plunge posts provide a smooth and accurate plunge stroke while the micro-fine depth adjustment offers precision up to 5/128" for inlays and veneer routing. A five-position adjustable turret-stop is built-in for repeated or stepped plunge cuts. Large over-molded rubber grips make it more comfortable to hold the router and easier to control. The sealed industrial toggle switch is positioned so users can turn the router on or off without letting go of the handles. DEWALT's plunge base is available individually, or in a combination kit that includes the fixed and plunge bases together with a motor pack. The DW616PK 1-¾ HP (max motor HP) fixed-base / plunge-base router combo kit with ¼" and ½" collets, concentricity gauge, wrenches and kit box will sell for about $199. The DW618PK 2-¼ HP (max motor HP) electronic variable speed fixed-base / plunge-base router combo kit with ¼" and ½" collets, one wrench, concentricity gauge, additional large hole sub-base, and kit box will sell for about $249. New D-Handle Routers and Base DEWALT's router system also includes two D-handle routers suitable for routine edge profiling and production-type work. The D-handle DW616D router uses DEWALT's 1-¾ HP (max motor HP) 11-Amp motor, while the D-handle DW618D router has the 2-¼ HP (max motor HP) 12-Amp electronic variable speed motor with soft start. The D-handle base (DW6183) is also available as a separate component and can be used with both DEWALT motor packs. Both routers have DEWALT's Micro-Fine Adjustment Ring for precise depth setting. The D-handle design features enhanced ergonomics and a lock-on switch, while a two-position over-molded rubber handle on the front provides better tool control and comfort. For easy motor pack installation and removal, the base has a short detachable cordset that plugs into both motor packs directly from the handle, eliminating the need for a "shorty" cord D-handle motor. Quick-release motor latches and a tool-free adjustable motor cam lock make it easy to change motor packs and bits.

-- Product Offering -- Fixed-Base Routers (replaces DW610 model) DW616 1 ¾ HP Fixed-Base Router $159 (sgst. retail) DW616K 1 ¾ HP Fixed-Base Router (w/ Kit Box) $169 DW616D 1 ¾ HP D-Handle Fixed-Base Router $179 DW618 2 ¼ HP Fixed-Base Router $189 DW618K 2 ¼ HP Fixed-Base Router (w/ Kit Box) $199 DW618D 2 ¼ HP D-Handle Fixed-Base Router $209 Combination Kits: Fixed-Base / Plunge-Base Routers DW616PK 1 ¾ HP Fixed-Base and Plunge-Base Combo Kit $199 DW618PK 2 ¼ HP Fixed-Base and Plunge-Base Combo Kit $249 Separate Components DW616M Motor Only - 1 ¾ HP $138 DW6182 Base Only - Plunge $95 DW6183 Base Only - D-Handle $80 DW6184 Base Only - Fixed Base $45 DW6185 Detachable Cordset $20 DW6186 Spindle Lock $15 DW6187 Guide Bushing Base Plate $15 DW6188 Template Guide Bushing Set $39 DW6189 Large Hole Base Plate $15 DW6190 Guide Bushing Single D-Base Plate $15 DW6191 Large Hole Single D-Base Plate $15

Based in Baltimore, Md., DEWALT manufactures and markets high performance industrial power tools and accessories. For more information on DEWALT products, contact DEWALT at 701 E. Joppa Road, Baltimore, Md.,21286. Call toll free 1-800-4-DEWALT or visit www.DEWALT.com for a virtual tool tour.