I've owned and used the DW 616 1-3/4 hp router for the last for two years and have always yearned for a Plunge base and a D handle sub base for mortice and dado cutting respectively . Finally decided to acquire the extra bases and In my searches came across this DW618b3 kit with an larger 2-1/4 hp motor priced at around $242
When I crunched the numbers I realized that having already committed to shelling out $200+ on the two bases individually , I could basically pick up an extra 2-1/4hp Router motor and a carry case for an extra $30-$40.
Off the bat i was concerned that a number of users posed negative feedback about the magnetic speed control switch failing, but since most of these are pre 2009 i figured Dewalt has sorted this problem out and besides if the motor failed I could still use my Dw616 in all the sub bases and have a carry case for every thing. so I went ahead and pulled the trigger (pun intended)...
Item Delivered fast, arrived in great shape and complete with all accessories as described.
First off ...was very impressed with the case. Its solidly constructed looks like it can take a beating and is probably worth $50- $60 on its own, its internally moulded to securely hold and store all sub bases so they don't bang together during transport and I was surprised to find there was even a cutout in the case to hold the DW 6913 router edge guide that I bought as an add-on accessory (by the way this guide also fits the smaller base on the DW616 an added unlooked for bonus). I can store both routers mounted in the bases In this case along with a selection of bits ( all in their individual protective cases of course). Just be aware of its size 24" x 20" x 8"
Instructions were clear concise and accurate making for easy set up. Bases have a quality feel and are very solid , well finished with comfortable handles that provide a firm non slip grip. Clear sub-bases for viewing of bits and workpiece were flat and true and all were properly centered.
Plunge base , plunges and returns very smoothly , turret ( 5 steps one adjustable) has a quality feel with indexed points for sure positioning, depth setter took a little working out but works perfectly and accurately. Easy access handle mounted Plunge lock to hold tool in deployed position allowing for flat bottom mortices and dadoes. Shopvac hoses fit snuggly and dust/chip extraction works about 90% with some minor dust leakage.
D handle base is a joy ( for me) to use with a built in trigger lock so you can lock the tool on and then concentrate on guiding and routing. My one nit pick here is the lock release, you have to pull the trigger to disengage the lock and it has been a bit fiddly on one or two occasions but this may just be me working out the correct trigger technique.
Tool is surprisingly quiet, when compared to the smaller dw616, love the soft start and adjustable speeds, plenty power , super smooth in operation . Ran a series of plunge cuts for 1/2" wide by 2" deep mortices with a (freud) 1/2" upcut spiral bit with very clean results. Switched to the d handle with 3/4" double flute bit and ran test dadoes of varying depth without a hitch. Bit change out is a snap with the built in spindle lock and changing motor in between bases took all of 1-1/2 minutes including, changing the bit, reinstalling the fine depth setting ring on the motor ( ring not used with the plunge base ) and resetting the speed.
Some one took their time designing this tool thinking through a lot of the finer details . All in all im very pleased. Great value for me!!!!!!!!!
| Brand | DEWALT |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Product Dimensions | 24"W x 7.75"H |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 24000 RPM |
| Amperage | 12 Amps |
| Base Type | Plunge, Fixed |
| Manufacturer | DEWALT |
| Part Number | DW618B3 |
| Item Weight | 27.1 pounds |
| Item model number | DW618B3 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color | Factory |
| Style | Router |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Special Features | plunge |
| Included Components | DW618M motor packDW6184 fixed baseDW6182 plunge baseDW6183 D-handle base1/4" and 1/2" colletsWrenchLarge hole sub baseVacuum adapterKit Box |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | One year warranty, one year service contract, and 30 day no-risk trial |
