Thanks for sharing your experience 👍 I have the same exact table/setup. When I order it I looked at the "old" router and the reviews were very bad. Yes please make a review ASAP 😜
Hi lee, thanks for the fantastic review, i'm with you on value for money , buy once , cry once is spot on , my late father used to say if you cant afford it , sacrifice something & save for it & jessem is that sort of tool brand. with most things in life you get what you pay for. Thanks for leaving the segment with your wife in , she seems really fun & a natural on camera , thanks again & you now have a new subscriber, a big hello from great britain
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Okay, you're a comedy team. I know that because the first thing I thought was, "He must be joking." More of her in the videos, please!
Enjoyed the review. I’m in the process of putting together a new router table using a Harvey cast iron table and Harvey fence. I was considering using the Woodpecker Spinrite motor but came across your review and decided to order the JessEm motor instead. It addresses the issue I had about having to open the dust cabinet to set the router speed. The ability to connect outside air to the motor also seems like a great idea and should contribute to longer motor life. It is pricey but I have a buy once and move on mentality.
So it's been a while But I picked up this motor a couple days ago. I also picked up the dust box and air supply hoses. This purchase is in a line of decisions to reduce my over dust profile in my garage. I am in the process of adding a mini split to my garage shop. Back to the motor installation it seemed to go fairly smooth while I had the whole table flipped over on my work bench. then i go and place it back on the steel stand that Jessem makes. this is where I discovered my error in mounting the motor to the lift. I installed it just like my Bosch , huge mistake that caused the motor to sit way way too high. you must slide it to with in like a half inch from the top of the motor. I am now working in the dust box to slide this motor down . let me just say that took me a long time to move it down . the motor sits naturally tight in the lift it took some serious time to get into the proper position. I was extremely stubborn and chose to work on it while it was in the stand. Once I get everything buttoned up hook up my dust collector which is the Harvey g700 where I take a hose tool to tool. I put the 1/2 collet into the motor and try ti slip a router bit in and BAM the darn thing will not go in . For some reason Jessem Collet nut and collet are built a bit differently than my Axiom cnc machine. the hole on the nuts for either the 1/4 and 1/2 are cut with super super tight tolerances . The 1/4 collet works just fine the 1/2 I am not able to get a single bit into the collet. I emailed them Sunday to advise them of my situation. The website it says it takes 2-3 days to hear back from customer support. This morning I placed a call on the toll free number. The recording tells me the hours of operation for support end at like 2:30 eastern time . My call was placed prior to this time but I was kind of wondering about the short day to talk to a human. So I was prompted to leave a message of my issue but I was kind of bummed out at the lack of a human I didnt leave a message as I already emailed them and that is pretty much the same as talking to a recording. So as for the good . I ran a few pieces through using the 1/4 and what used to make a living nightmare of dust all over my shop , now there is virtually no dust coming from this router table.So I say that is a huge win . I like the collet nut system the way the wrenches interact they are nice size and are much nicer to get a good torque on things and releasing the nut as well.. The variable speed control unit sure adds a next level of ease of use like the side crank does . I also want to say I am a little bummed that the collet is just a smidge too tight. Oh so I did some test cuts and some work on it today and I opened up the box at the end of it and there was virtually no dust even in the box. One other product I picked up was the micro adjuster. I have the TA fence and I love it adding this micro adjuster is something I should have grabbed day one! The micro adjuster is fantastic and it is the last quality of life upgrade I can make to this rig and using this is now all so easy and comfortable . I do not have to fiddle with any speed control under the table , I don't have a giant mess at the end of routing . The new spindle has all the power I will ever ever need in a router table. So I would love to hear from anyone who has this spindle motor.
Very informative video. Well done, Sir. I agree with your value for the money assessment. This tool isn't cheap, but good tools never are. I don't mind paying $500 for the motor. 3.25 horsepower, double bearings, etc. The external control box and variable speed control were an instant win for me. However, I do mind getting nickel and dimed for the air intake hoses. For the money, this should come with the hose kit, especially since this motor was obviously designed to be used with the hose kit from the start. They sell the hose kit for $40, which means it costs about $10-$15 to produce. Including it would provide even greater incentive for people to purchase the motor. Chances are good that most folks looking at this high-dollar tool are using a dust box with their router table. If you have a dust box, you really need the hoses. A note on installation. I have a JessEm Mastr-lift II. It's probably about 5-6 years old. Was using it with a Porter Cable 7518 motor, which is the same 4.25" diameter as the PowRTek motor. I had a heck of a time getting the Pwrtek motor in there! I loosened the clamp/pinch bolt as much as it would go and even loosened the four triangular clamps. I had to pry the mount apart with a pry bar in order to get the motor to slide into the clamp. It was a ridiculously tight fit. Not sure if maybe my lift is "off" tolerance wise from most Mastrlift II models. Thought I'd point that out.
I kind of agree with you on the hoses. But, keep in mind that when they started selling these, the hoses were not even available, so that's probably why they still don't bundle them. Not sure about the Mastr-Lift, but mine went in pretty easy.
Absolutely. Almost everything they do is the best implementation of that particular item, like the tables, lifts, doweling jig, miter gauge, etc. That’s why they don’t have a million items in their catalog.
My only nit-picky complaint on fit and finish is with the mounting plate for the speed control… it would have been nice if they had it powder coated black to match the ALTS stand.
I am a fan of your site and reviews. But. I cannot understand one thing. You have the best router / router table money can buy. It’s top of the line no doubt. Behind you , your shop wall is covered in Ryobi hand powder tools. ? To be polite Ryobi is ,,, not top of the line. FYI. I am in awe of that router table.
Fair question. Woodworking tools that I use a lot, I am willing to spend good money on. I use my router table a lot. Tools that are not used very often, I don’t splurge on. Most of those Ryobi tools are mechanic’s tools for working on cars and motorcycles, which I don’t do very often. You don’t see very much in the video my other woodworking tools, which are mostly Milwaukee, Dewalt, and Festool.
Great video and review, Lee, thanks. And I love the Ren & Stimpy t-shirt ... do you have one for Powdered Toast Man? I just re-built my homemade router table and added the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II -- it's wonderfully engineered. Hey, the link you've provided to Jessem's page for the Pow-R-Tek SR Motor is broken (brings up a 404 Page Not Found error) so you might want to edit that... it looks like your link has some weird random characters in it. You have a fantastic set of tools there ... is that Drew Fisher's flip-top-tool-table in the background? Don't you love the Woodpecker Rip Flip stop system for the SawStop? -- Last question: what do you make with these fantastic tools? Do you have (will you have) build videos where we can see how you use all that power? Thanks again for the wonderful content! (P.S. Don't you freaking LOVE that DeWalt gyroscopic screwdriver! It's one of my favorite tools!)
Thanks for the heads up on the broken link! And yes, good eye! -- that is Drew Fisher's flip top table in the background. You might want to check out our next podcast episode this weekend, we have a few interesting things to say about Drew (and that table in particular).
If you really want the best router table setup then you need the Incra TS-LS positioner. It will take your router table set up to an entirely new level, its the best router table fence/accessory.
good review. Been using mine for about a week and agree on your assessment. Dust collection hoses are not ready to ship yet, I asked and was told some time in January. They are also working on a kit that includes hoses and dust box, i'm waiting for that so i can get it installed. So far very impressive router. I did have to fabricate a bracket to attach it to the sawstop router wing.
I knew about the dust box but I doubt it will fit because of the cabinet I already built. I am seriously giving some thought to building a completely new one using the port hoses and integrated 4” dust collection and doing a video on it.
I earmarked this one a while ago, and just now got back to it. I may have to look into this tool. Mostly I do the wood lathe and LOTS of bowls. I am getting back into flat work now days since I am "retired". My dad always said he wasn't going to retire until his birth certificate expired. He almost made 102. I plan on doing the same thing!
Hey Lee, I just stumbled upon this tool review and really like it. However, I have one question. why can't I find it on your actual channel? It doesn't show up in your videos list. Just wondering how much more good content I am missing from you and if you actually knew this was happening. I am only seeing 11 actual videos there and this isn't one of them. Just looking out for ya. Actually, I just found it in your product review play list. Seems like a buried treasure there though. Ill keep digging for more content.
It looks like this one is showing for me, I just checked while logged in from a couple of other channels and it’s there. It’s marked as Public. But you are correct in noting that several of my older/less popular videos are delisted.
Of course it's not the world's most expensive router motor. There are others more industrial out there that cost double or more. But they're more niche than this. In my opinion this will be the best motor for tables. Hopefullywe'll get them in Europe, too.
Hi, Sorry I’ve got to say I love you territorial I think the router table is amazing makes it very easy with a handle on the side to raise and lower. Phil from the moulin France
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks , That’s okay I can’t speak French either I’ve lived here for quite a few years I don’t mix with people so I do not learn anything au revoir soir. Bonjour. And that’s about it, I am retired English gentleman Ha Ha , Specialist joiner cabinet maker, In my 70s. Phil from the moulin France
My JessEm customer experience was bad. And that's me deciding to not describe how I really feel. The experience has made me hesitant to purchase equipment I actually want from them. JessEm being in Canada makes return shipping impractical (cost) and if you purchase direct, you can't utilize US based dealers for help. Their lack of care and limitations for return/exchange, so far, has kept me looking for alternatives to their products.
Thanks for the video. I tend to think that the router that goes in my table needs to be reliable and have ample power. Other than that, the bells and whistles do not matter in my opinion. The router that you use hand held is the router that all the bells and whistles matter because they will be used. Things like a good plunge system, dust distraction and the accessories that can be added to it such as guilds are important. But in a table, none of this matters. In my opinion, I don't think getting the best router for a table is necessary
This router has almost no bells and whistles. It doesn’t plunge, it doesn’t even have handles. Just a motor, a spindle, and a control box. Where this one really shines is the internals. You absolutely will not find any better.
Due to popular demand, here's a FREE plan for the under-table storage cabinet as seen in the video (SketchUp format): www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/0dfJBo7WPvC1rFlGsxisn8xvA#Router_Table_Cabinet
I messaged them at Jessem and asked if it would work with an MLCS or Grizzly powered lift. My current Jessem setup had a Bosch 1617 router in it and I would have to replace my lift for this motor. If I'm going to take the plunge it may as well be a n electronic one.
Alright you're 7 months in. How is it treating you? I splurged on the Ultimate Excell II package last year and I'm on the fence whether to pair the new motor with it or go for something less expensive. Is it still rock solid?
Very rock solid. Still performs as perfectly as the day I made the video! It’s definitely a lot of router, but a lot of cash too. If you’ve got the money to splurge a little you won’t be disappointed.
Spinrite has er style chuck which is much better at holding bits and they have much more choice in bit shank diameter also it gives them better runout and quieter.
I never really considered a router motor before. I always just stuck my dewalt router in the table. I now have sprung for a nicer table and a real lift, so thos is a possible upgrade. Definitely worth considering.
That’s kind of what I did too. I used that Bosch in the video for quite some time in a different table. The table-purposed ones tend to be more powerful and bog down less on harder woods.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks So as an example, I have a pretty big bit that is supposed to cut locking miter joints. It doesn't seem to work well. would that possibly be because the motor on the Dewalt isn't up to the challenge?
@@CoreyShockey quite possibly. It was when I started using big cabinet bits that I noticed the Bosch would bog down a lot. You really need 3.25 HP for those, which is the biggest you’ll find for 110v.
Great video Lee, I really enjoyed it. That’s a beautiful router table set up and I just realized that I need a light attached to my table after seeing yours. Yours looks to be an OEM with your table?
Great review and run through of the setup. I'll be eyeing this for Christmas. I hope they still make them. I was really impressed by some of their height/setup tools and the TS Cut guides. Really really well made. Color me impressed by JessEm
Nice review! There was a lady in Customer Service that helped me purchased the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II table package. She was really nice and helpful but for the life of me, I can't remember her name. Apologies, I'm having an old man moment. Anyways, I'm sure you will enjoy your new router. Thanks for sharing. 👍
I just received my router today to replace my Porter Cable. I have the Harvey router table and the Woodpecker lift, not a big fan of the WoodPecker lift, but the Harvey table and the new Pow-R-Tek should be a awesome combination!
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks I looked at getting the Jessem but it was during Covid and they were backordered and I like cast-iron table tops anyway. But defiantly looking for a better router lift.
I just installed this motor into Incra/Woodpecker lift and so far I like it. Coming from Triton setup without a lift, its definitely better. What don't you like about the lift?
i'm building a new router table to replace an aging too small veritas table from lee valley. i have the lift, tabletop, fence and miter slide, all from jessem. i'm still considering a suitable motor. i do have a bosch 1617 to get going with but the jessem motor would be a nice addition. i visited jessem at their factory in New Brunswick, Canada last month, NB is east of maine. Great place with great people! They make almost everything "in house", even all of the screws and nuts and bolts. the router motor is made there, the armature and colletts are the only exceptions. those parts are imported. the rest of the router is made at their factory here in canada.
This is a great motor you should definitely consider if you can afford it. I used the Bosch for quite a long time, then the Spinrite, but this one is the bee’s knees 🐝
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks That comes with maturity and, I think, the best way to be. I love tools and I have bought some on impulse (not always good). I'm subscribed and look forward to more great content.
So now that you've had this new router motor a week or so, have you found any problems with the air intakes without the hoses installed? I have a similar installation, as you do and want to ensure I get the hoses, if necessary...
Not at all. If you decide to leave the lift open there’s really no need for them. If I decide to eventually build an enclosure then yes, I will definitely get those.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Are you going to make a video when you do the enclosure? I have found that the onboard dust extraction below the table isn't very efficient... and am concerned about dust collecting
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks ah ok, i am sorry, not too good with english show got a bit confused, replaced the milwaukee with mafell in the past. Not now the new one. Thanks for taking the time to reply.
Great review and video. Do you have any plans for the storage drawers you built for that stand? I have the same unit and would love to “steal” your design.
Personally - IMO the Bosch 3.25 HP 1619EVS is one of the best. Bosch stopped making several years ago but I personally would go find a 1619EVS and buy it if you don’t have this nice table.
do you need the hose kit for safe airflow use? I have a Porter Cable installed on mine at the moment and I can't stand the amount of noise it makes. Enough noise to make me shell out the $549.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks well I bought one! lol 4am purchase. That morning I was routing some rails and told my Porter cable “ you’re done, you’re dead to me!” Back to your plastic case you go!
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks by chance do you remember the carriage bolt assembly positioning for your router with the power tech SR it’s not mentioned in their manual on which bolts go where and I’m having a hard time getting my new router motor in
It would make great content. I Just got my sawstop table and I noticed all the aftermarket accessories you have on yours. I was able to figure out what they were from google but I'm sure many would love to see a video on it. Great video and keep up the good work! @@BustedKnuckleWoodworks
Question with your table: what do you do for dust control on the outfeed side? I use the vac on the fence but it doesnt do much seems like. Am i missing something?
I sometimes use that Rockler hose clamp with a shop vac on the outfeed side if there’s room. But yeah, this is an issue with any router table. I keep trying different things. If I come up with anything good I’ll make a video for it.
I also have that router table with the TA fence. I also picked up the miter slide 2 . That is a fast handy miter for thin stock. I was wondering how quiet the new motor is. Also does all of that noise savings go away once you start milling stock through the bits.. I have an axiom elite cnc with a water cooled spindle and that thing is like a whisper..that is until you hit the material with a bit,. Oh I also sort of got misled with the Harvey g700 being whisper quiet. I am not sure how loud your laguna dust collection system is. I only bring all of this up because some of the claims I have seen online and what companies have made as well. So I just want to better understand the real world experience you might have with the jessem router motor..
Well, it’s a motor, so it makes noise. 😄 It’s definitely quieter than the Bosch was, and on par with the Spinrite. Even quieter than my DeWalt palm router. But yeah, once it hits wood you’re gonna want some ear protection. The Laguna C Flux isn’t crazy-loud but definitely louder than the P Flux. I was thinking about building a sound box around the filter as that is where most of the sound comes out, but probably not worth it.
I got this motor yesterday and part of the rationale was your assessment that it was a very quiet motor. Perceived noise vs Bosch 1617 is that the Jessem is louder. I then compared them with a decibel meter (new Jessem vs Bosch 1617) and they are pretty much the same at max setting (around 89db). I hope it wasn't the case that I got a louder-than-normal motor, but I definitely would not describe mine as quieter than normal.
@coreymodeste3765 at the lowest setting my ears tell me that the JessEm is quieter, but at higher settings they are pretty much the same. I didn’t use a decibel meter, just going by ear on this.
I was wondering, do you have the master lift 2 table with the side crank , Also did you happen to purchase the brand new dust collection box. At some point I think I would love to get my hands on the spindle and the dust box. I think this is a purchase probably for next season . I just picked up a SawStop pcs 3 hp cabinet saw a few weeks ago. I am converting from a track saw system to a more conventional table saw system. I was able to achieve pretty reliable square and dimension . The big downside is the amount of jig work needed to cut thin stock. So I think I may have blown my budget for a big tool purchase until next season . The hidden costs of tooling is eating my budget . Blades Miter sleds . I am going on far too long but I would love to hear from both of you how your feelings are long term with the spindle. @@NYC_TH-camr_3765
@robertkrueger3902 I do have the master lift with the side crank. I can’t use the dust box because the dimensions of the underside cabinet I built (it’s in the video) doesn’t allow. I will be extending that cabinet with a custom enclosure though, it’s on my list.
JessEm products are top-notch. I own a few of their products; best machines I’ve ever used. Generally, you get what you pay for. And in this case, you are paying for a machine that will last a lifetime, so $500 is nothing compared to how long it is going to last. Plus, consider its resale value. I consider JessEm products to be an investment that lasts.
![ผัวเถื่อน - ยูริ โตเกียวมิวสิค [ OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/P08ORRVDGl8/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks for sharing your experience 👍
I have the same exact table/setup. When I order it I looked at the "old" router and the reviews were very bad. Yes please make a review ASAP 😜
Yes, that old router wasn’t very good. That one was a rebranded Milwaukee that they discontinued pretty quickly.
Hi lee, thanks for the fantastic review, i'm with you on value for money , buy once , cry once is spot on , my late father used to say if you cant afford it , sacrifice something & save for it & jessem is that sort of tool brand. with most things in life you get what you pay for. Thanks for leaving the segment with your wife in , she seems really fun & a natural on camera , thanks again & you now have a new subscriber, a big hello from great britain
Haha thanks! My wife is definitely the comedian in the family 😂
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Okay, you're a comedy team. I know that because the first thing I thought was, "He must be joking." More of her in the videos, please!
@@alexplorer Tami approves this message! 😁
Enjoyed the review. I’m in the process of putting together a new router table using a Harvey cast iron table and Harvey fence. I was considering using the Woodpecker Spinrite motor but came across your review and decided to order the JessEm motor instead. It addresses the issue I had about having to open the dust cabinet to set the router speed. The ability to connect outside air to the motor also seems like a great idea and should contribute to longer motor life. It is pricey but I have a buy once and move on mentality.
I certainly think you’ll be thrilled with the purchase. I am in the process of selling my Spinrite 😁
So it's been a while But I picked up this motor a couple days ago. I also picked up the dust box and air supply hoses.
This purchase is in a line of decisions to reduce my over dust profile in my garage. I am in the process of adding a mini split to my garage shop.
Back to the motor installation it seemed to go fairly smooth while I had the whole table flipped over on my work bench. then i go and place it back on the steel stand that Jessem makes. this is where I discovered my error in mounting the motor to the lift. I installed it just like my Bosch , huge mistake that caused the motor to sit way way too high. you must slide it to with in like a half inch from the top of the motor. I am now working in the dust box to slide this motor down . let me just say that took me a long time to move it down . the motor sits naturally tight in the lift it took some serious time to get into the proper position. I was extremely stubborn and chose to work on it while it was in the stand.
Once I get everything buttoned up hook up my dust collector which is the Harvey g700 where I take a hose tool to tool. I put the 1/2 collet into the motor and try ti slip a router bit in and BAM the darn thing will not go in . For some reason Jessem Collet nut and collet are built a bit differently than my Axiom cnc machine. the hole on the nuts for either the 1/4 and 1/2 are cut with super super tight tolerances . The 1/4 collet works just fine the 1/2 I am not able to get a single bit into the collet. I emailed them Sunday to advise them of my situation. The website it says it takes 2-3 days to hear back from customer support. This morning I placed a call on the toll free number. The recording tells me the hours of operation for support end at like 2:30 eastern time . My call was placed prior to this time but I was kind of wondering about the short day to talk to a human. So I was prompted to leave a message of my issue but I was kind of bummed out at the lack of a human I didnt leave a message as I already emailed them and that is pretty much the same as talking to a recording.
So as for the good . I ran a few pieces through using the 1/4 and what used to make a living nightmare of dust all over my shop , now there is virtually no dust coming from this router table.So I say that is a huge win . I like the collet nut system the way the wrenches interact they are nice size and are much nicer to get a good torque on things and releasing the nut as well.. The variable speed control unit sure adds a next level of ease of use like the side crank does . I also want to say I am a little bummed that the collet is just a smidge too tight. Oh so I did some test cuts and some work on it today and I opened up the box at the end of it and there was virtually no dust even in the box.
One other product I picked up was the micro adjuster. I have the TA fence and I love it adding this micro adjuster is something I should have grabbed day one! The micro adjuster is fantastic and it is the last quality of life upgrade I can make to this rig and using this is now all so easy and comfortable . I do not have to fiddle with any speed control under the table , I don't have a giant mess at the end of routing . The new spindle has all the power I will ever ever need in a router table.
So I would love to hear from anyone who has this spindle motor.
Very informative video. Well done, Sir. I agree with your value for the money assessment. This tool isn't cheap, but good tools never are. I don't mind paying $500 for the motor. 3.25 horsepower, double bearings, etc. The external control box and variable speed control were an instant win for me. However, I do mind getting nickel and dimed for the air intake hoses.
For the money, this should come with the hose kit, especially since this motor was obviously designed to be used with the hose kit from the start. They sell the hose kit for $40, which means it costs about $10-$15 to produce. Including it would provide even greater incentive for people to purchase the motor. Chances are good that most folks looking at this high-dollar tool are using a dust box with their router table. If you have a dust box, you really need the hoses.
A note on installation. I have a JessEm Mastr-lift II. It's probably about 5-6 years old. Was using it with a Porter Cable 7518 motor, which is the same 4.25" diameter as the PowRTek motor. I had a heck of a time getting the Pwrtek motor in there! I loosened the clamp/pinch bolt as much as it would go and even loosened the four triangular clamps. I had to pry the mount apart with a pry bar in order to get the motor to slide into the clamp. It was a ridiculously tight fit. Not sure if maybe my lift is "off" tolerance wise from most Mastrlift II models. Thought I'd point that out.
I kind of agree with you on the hoses. But, keep in mind that when they started selling these, the hoses were not even available, so that's probably why they still don't bundle them. Not sure about the Mastr-Lift, but mine went in pretty easy.
Fantastic tools well worth the investment.
Absolutely. Almost everything they do is the best implementation of that particular item, like the tables, lifts, doweling jig, miter gauge, etc. That’s why they don’t have a million items in their catalog.
My only nit-picky complaint on fit and finish is with the mounting plate for the speed control… it would have been nice if they had it powder coated black to match the ALTS stand.
Good point. That would have been smart 🤔
Phyllis is the excellent customer service rep you are speaking of!
Yes! JessEm rep emailed me to let me know and passed on my compliments! 😁
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Ive had the same great experience with her as well.
I am a fan of your site and reviews. But. I cannot understand one thing. You have the best router / router table money can buy. It’s top of the line no doubt. Behind you , your shop wall is covered in Ryobi hand powder tools. ? To be polite Ryobi is ,,, not top of the line. FYI. I am in awe of that router table.
Fair question. Woodworking tools that I use a lot, I am willing to spend good money on. I use my router table a lot. Tools that are not used very often, I don’t splurge on. Most of those Ryobi tools are mechanic’s tools for working on cars and motorcycles, which I don’t do very often. You don’t see very much in the video my other woodworking tools, which are mostly Milwaukee, Dewalt, and Festool.
Great video and review, Lee, thanks. And I love the Ren & Stimpy t-shirt ... do you have one for Powdered Toast Man? I just re-built my homemade router table and added the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II -- it's wonderfully engineered. Hey, the link you've provided to Jessem's page for the Pow-R-Tek SR Motor is broken (brings up a 404 Page Not Found error) so you might want to edit that... it looks like your link has some weird random characters in it. You have a fantastic set of tools there ... is that Drew Fisher's flip-top-tool-table in the background? Don't you love the Woodpecker Rip Flip stop system for the SawStop? -- Last question: what do you make with these fantastic tools? Do you have (will you have) build videos where we can see how you use all that power? Thanks again for the wonderful content! (P.S. Don't you freaking LOVE that DeWalt gyroscopic screwdriver! It's one of my favorite tools!)
Thanks for the heads up on the broken link! And yes, good eye! -- that is Drew Fisher's flip top table in the background. You might want to check out our next podcast episode this weekend, we have a few interesting things to say about Drew (and that table in particular).
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Looking forward to it -- thanks!
If you really want the best router table setup then you need the Incra TS-LS positioner. It will take your router table set up to an entirely new level, its the best router table fence/accessory.
Not a fan of integrating the router table with a table saw.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks they have a positioner for just the router table.
good review. Been using mine for about a week and agree on your assessment. Dust collection hoses are not ready to ship yet, I asked and was told some time in January. They are also working on a kit that includes hoses and dust box, i'm waiting for that so i can get it installed. So far very impressive router. I did have to fabricate a bracket to attach it to the sawstop router wing.
I knew about the dust box but I doubt it will fit because of the cabinet I already built. I am seriously giving some thought to building a completely new one using the port hoses and integrated 4” dust collection and doing a video on it.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks That's my second option to build one or get sawstop/harvey/rockler one and get a hose kit
I earmarked this one a while ago, and just now got back to it. I may have to look into this tool. Mostly I do the wood lathe and LOTS of bowls. I am getting back into flat work now days since I am "retired". My dad always said he wasn't going to retire until his birth certificate expired. He almost made 102. I plan on doing the same thing!
@@robohippy yeah brother! This will outlive you even to that age!
Hey Lee, I just stumbled upon this tool review and really like it. However, I have one question. why can't I find it on your actual channel? It doesn't show up in your videos list. Just wondering how much more good content I am missing from you and if you actually knew this was happening. I am only seeing 11 actual videos there and this isn't one of them. Just looking out for ya. Actually, I just found it in your product review play list. Seems like a buried treasure there though. Ill keep digging for more content.
It looks like this one is showing for me, I just checked while logged in from a couple of other channels and it’s there. It’s marked as Public. But you are correct in noting that several of my older/less popular videos are delisted.
Of course it's not the world's most expensive router motor. There are others more industrial out there that cost double or more. But they're more niche than this. In my opinion this will be the best motor for tables. Hopefullywe'll get them in Europe, too.
Hi, Sorry I’ve got to say I love you territorial I think the router table is amazing makes it very easy with a handle on the side to raise and lower.
Phil from the moulin France
Thanks for watching Phil! Sorry for my terrible French 🥺
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks , That’s okay I can’t speak French either I’ve lived here for quite a few years I don’t mix with people so I do not learn anything au revoir soir. Bonjour. And that’s about it, I am retired English gentleman Ha Ha , Specialist joiner cabinet maker, In my 70s.
Phil from the moulin France
My JessEm customer experience was bad. And that's me deciding to not describe how I really feel. The experience has made me hesitant to purchase equipment I actually want from them. JessEm being in Canada makes return shipping impractical (cost) and if you purchase direct, you can't utilize US based dealers for help. Their lack of care and limitations for return/exchange, so far, has kept me looking for alternatives to their products.
@@glockguide well that sucks. No doubt that return shipping is a pain, but the fact that they don’t collect US sales tax helps make up for that.
Thanks for the video. I tend to think that the router that goes in my table needs to be reliable and have ample power. Other than that, the bells and whistles do not matter in my opinion. The router that you use hand held is the router that all the bells and whistles matter because they will be used. Things like a good plunge system, dust distraction and the accessories that can be added to it such as guilds are important. But in a table, none of this matters. In my opinion, I don't think getting the best router for a table is necessary
This router has almost no bells and whistles. It doesn’t plunge, it doesn’t even have handles. Just a motor, a spindle, and a control box. Where this one really shines is the internals. You absolutely will not find any better.
agree with everything you say except the jessem fence.. The Incra exceeds in it in capability 10 fold easily
I find that Incra fence far too complicated and klunky. I have the micro adjuster and miter slide on the TA and it’s awesome.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks its ok to disagree :) :) :)
Wrenches are normally forged steel and not cast iron. Cast iron is soft and a wrench made from it would quickly break.
Yes of course these are steel, I was just reacting in real time in the video, it wasn’t scripted or anything. Thanks for pointing it out.
Clarification, cast iron is BRITTLE AND SNAPS
Due to popular demand, here's a FREE plan for the under-table storage cabinet as seen in the video (SketchUp format): www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/0dfJBo7WPvC1rFlGsxisn8xvA#Router_Table_Cabinet
Appreciate it!
@@lat61you are welcome! 🤗
I messaged them at Jessem and asked if it would work with an MLCS or Grizzly powered lift. My current Jessem setup had a Bosch 1617 router in it and I would have to replace my lift for this motor. If I'm going to take the plunge it may as well be a n electronic one.
This one is the exact same diameter as the 1617, so if that fits, this one will also.
Alright you're 7 months in. How is it treating you?
I splurged on the Ultimate Excell II package last year and I'm on the fence whether to pair the new motor with it or go for something less expensive. Is it still rock solid?
Very rock solid. Still performs as perfectly as the day I made the video!
It’s definitely a lot of router, but a lot of cash too. If you’ve got the money to splurge a little you won’t be disappointed.
IT's Log!!! LOLOLOL nice tee shirt... 😄😁😆
Love me some Ren & Stimpy! 😂
Spinrite has er style chuck which is much better at holding bits and they have much more choice in bit shank diameter also it gives them better runout and quieter.
This has the exact same ER-20 collets as the Spinrite.
I never really considered a router motor before. I always just stuck my dewalt router in the table. I now have sprung for a nicer table and a real lift, so thos is a possible upgrade. Definitely worth considering.
That’s kind of what I did too. I used that Bosch in the video for quite some time in a different table. The table-purposed ones tend to be more powerful and bog down less on harder woods.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks So as an example, I have a pretty big bit that is supposed to cut locking miter joints. It doesn't seem to work well. would that possibly be because the motor on the Dewalt isn't up to the challenge?
@@CoreyShockey quite possibly. It was when I started using big cabinet bits that I noticed the Bosch would bog down a lot. You really need 3.25 HP for those, which is the biggest you’ll find for 110v.
Lee, the switch alone was probably $200 putting it in the same price range as the one it replaced.
Art from Ohio
Good point there
I have Jessem table saw guides, pretty good quality. But I just assembled my bosch router table. Are your inserts flash with table top?
Yes, definitely. They’re plastic though. Jessem just released a set of phenolic inserts I’d like to pick up.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks well, mine aren’t flush. Gonna have to figure it out.
@@GeometryBuild I had the Bosch router table for a while. The one with the aluminum top. It was terrible. I should have done a video to warn people 😂
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks too late for me ))) but do it!
Great video Lee, I really enjoyed it. That’s a beautiful router table set up and I just realized that I need a light attached to my table after seeing yours. Yours looks to be an OEM with your table?
Haha no, that’s just a clamp-on desk lamp I snagged off Amazon for like $40…
Great review and run through of the setup. I'll be eyeing this for Christmas. I hope they still make them. I was really impressed by some of their height/setup tools and the TS Cut guides. Really really well made. Color me impressed by JessEm
This is the flagship product of their entire company pretty much, so they’ll be making them for a pretty long time.
They went with a brushed motor so they could use an inexpensive variable speed controller.
I’d say that’s quite possible. Nothing wrong with brushed motors in my opinion if you have access to replacements.
Nice review! There was a lady in Customer Service that helped me purchased the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II table package. She was really nice and helpful but for the life of me, I can't remember her name. Apologies, I'm having an old man moment. Anyways, I'm sure you will enjoy your new router. Thanks for sharing. 👍
I know, I thought about calling and asking but I was afraid it might come off weird haha 😆
Haha I found out today her name is Phyllis 😁
Yes!! That’s the lady who helped me with my order
Phyllis Thurrott… she’s helped me out on a number of occasions… great customer service!
Yes, she is a gem 💎 and she’s seen the video with my sentiments 😁
I just received my router today to replace my Porter Cable. I have the Harvey router table and the Woodpecker lift, not a big fan of the WoodPecker lift, but the Harvey table and the new Pow-R-Tek should be a awesome combination!
I’d love to try that Harvey table sometime 👍 looks sweet
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks I looked at getting the Jessem but it was during Covid and they were backordered and I like cast-iron table tops anyway. But defiantly looking for a better router lift.
The cast iron intrigues me but I roll mine around a lot and I bet that thing is HEAVY 😳
Yeah it is heavy but I’ve got my cabinet on locking casters and it rolls around good but it never get moved.
I just installed this motor into Incra/Woodpecker lift and so far I like it. Coming from Triton setup without a lift, its definitely better. What don't you like about the lift?
i'm building a new router table to replace an aging too small veritas table from lee valley. i have the lift, tabletop, fence and miter slide, all from jessem. i'm still considering a suitable motor. i do have a bosch 1617 to get going with but the jessem motor would be a nice addition.
i visited jessem at their factory in New Brunswick, Canada last month, NB is east of maine. Great place with great people!
They make almost everything "in house", even all of the screws and nuts and bolts. the router motor is made there, the armature and colletts are the only exceptions. those parts are imported. the rest of the router is made at their factory here in canada.
This is a great motor you should definitely consider if you can afford it. I used the Bosch for quite a long time, then the Spinrite, but this one is the bee’s knees 🐝
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks i ordered it yesterday, will be here today. love the jessem stuff and it's made here in canada
Enjoy your stuff. You have a whole lot more money than I do. I'm still doing business with MLCS and thinking they are a step up from most brands.
I do a lot of research and spend my money very carefully. 🙂 TBH I don’t buy new tools all that often. I kinda have most of what I need already.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks That comes with maturity and, I think, the best way to be. I love tools and I have bought some on impulse (not always good). I'm subscribed and look forward to more great content.
Great review.
Why did you have to disassemble the table? You could just remove the previous router and install the new one from below?
No, because I have drawers underneath that I built. There are plans for it in the description.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Oh yes I see!
btw.. subscribed and bell run.. Love your content..
Thanks 🙏 so much, appreciate when someone notices the hard work that goes into all of this 😅
So now that you've had this new router motor a week or so, have you found any problems with the air intakes without the hoses installed? I have a similar installation, as you do and want to ensure I get the hoses, if necessary...
Not at all. If you decide to leave the lift open there’s really no need for them. If I decide to eventually build an enclosure then yes, I will definitely get those.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks Are you going to make a video when you do the enclosure? I have found that the onboard dust extraction below the table isn't very efficient... and am concerned about dust collecting
@@anatoliyefimov4984 absolutely I will be doing that!
How long did the spin right last you?
I only had the Spinrite for a couple of months. Kept this one and sold the Spinrite.
Its not a mafell motor but the milwaukee is decent though
This is not a Milwaukee though. The old one was but this is their own design
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks ah ok, i am sorry, not too good with english show got a bit confused, replaced the milwaukee with mafell in the past. Not now the new one. Thanks for taking the time to reply.
@@Rompestromper No worries happy to help 😁
Great review and video. Do you have any plans for the storage drawers you built for that stand? I have the same unit and would love to “steal” your design.
I actually do have plans. Do you do SketchUp?
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks I do!
Shoot me an email, be happy to send over the file
Tammy would be queen of my trailer park
😂 of ALL the parks
Log it rolls down stairs
Alone or in pairs
It even runs over the neighbors dog.
It’s better than bad, it’s GOOD! 😂
No, it was the Porter Cable!
What was? The original router you mean?
Personally - IMO the Bosch 3.25 HP 1619EVS is one of the best.
Bosch stopped making several years ago but I personally would go find a 1619EVS and buy it if you don’t have this nice table.
Never used that one.
The 1619EVS is not designed to go in a router lift.
do you need the hose kit for safe airflow use? I have a Porter Cable installed on mine at the moment and I can't stand the amount of noise it makes. Enough noise to make me shell out the $549.
I am still running without the hose kit, no problems. They now also have a dust box that would also cut down on the noise significantly.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks well I bought one! lol 4am purchase. That morning I was routing some rails and told my Porter cable “ you’re done, you’re dead to me!” Back to your plastic case you go!
@@haighyvshaighy oh boy those 4am purchases will get you every time 😂
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks by chance do you remember the carriage bolt assembly positioning for your router with the power tech SR it’s not mentioned in their manual on which bolts go where and I’m having a hard time getting my new router motor in
@@haighyvshaighy it’s the widest setting, same as the Porter Cable. Their customer service is quite good if you call them.
Do you have a video on all of your sawstop accessories?
I’m afraid I do not.
It would make great content. I Just got my sawstop table and I noticed all the aftermarket accessories you have on yours. I was able to figure out what they were from google but I'm sure many would love to see a video on it. Great video and keep up the good work! @@BustedKnuckleWoodworks
@@richardash83 the ones I have that are worth having are the Woodpecker rip flip and the JessEm miter gauge.
Awesome! Thank you much! @@BustedKnuckleWoodworks
Great video
Thank you 🙏 sir
I have those same Jessem rollers on my table saw fence. Use them on the Master II fence as well.
They are great aren’t they?
Question with your table: what do you do for dust control on the outfeed side? I use the vac on the fence but it doesnt do much seems like. Am i missing something?
I sometimes use that Rockler hose clamp with a shop vac on the outfeed side if there’s room. But yeah, this is an issue with any router table. I keep trying different things. If I come up with anything good I’ll make a video for it.
@@BustedKnuckleWoodworks o ok i thought it was my error. I was about to buy their dust box, is that more to protect the router from dust?
@@ChristIsLord229 yes, especially with the hoses if you have the Pow-R-Tek router, those intake ports clog fast
I also have that router table with the TA fence. I also picked up the miter slide 2 . That is a fast handy miter for thin stock. I was wondering how quiet the new motor is. Also does all of that noise savings go away once you start milling stock through the bits.. I have an axiom elite cnc with a water cooled spindle and that thing is like a whisper..that is until you hit the material with a bit,. Oh I also sort of got misled with the Harvey g700 being whisper quiet. I am not sure how loud your laguna dust collection system is. I only bring all of this up because some of the claims I have seen online and what companies have made as well. So I just want to better understand the real world experience you might have with the jessem router motor..
Well, it’s a motor, so it makes noise. 😄 It’s definitely quieter than the Bosch was, and on par with the Spinrite. Even quieter than my DeWalt palm router. But yeah, once it hits wood you’re gonna want some ear protection.
The Laguna C Flux isn’t crazy-loud but definitely louder than the P Flux. I was thinking about building a sound box around the filter as that is where most of the sound comes out, but probably not worth it.
I got this motor yesterday and part of the rationale was your assessment that it was a very quiet motor. Perceived noise vs Bosch 1617 is that the Jessem is louder. I then compared them with a decibel meter (new Jessem vs Bosch 1617) and they are pretty much the same at max setting (around 89db). I hope it wasn't the case that I got a louder-than-normal motor, but I definitely would not describe mine as quieter than normal.
@coreymodeste3765 at the lowest setting my ears tell me that the JessEm is quieter, but at higher settings they are pretty much the same. I didn’t use a decibel meter, just going by ear on this.
I was wondering, do you have the master lift 2 table with the side crank , Also did you happen to purchase the brand new dust collection box. At some point I think I would love to get my hands on the spindle and the dust box. I think this is a purchase probably for next season . I just picked up a SawStop pcs 3 hp cabinet saw a few weeks ago. I am converting from a track saw system to a more conventional table saw system. I was able to achieve pretty reliable square and dimension . The big downside is the amount of jig work needed to cut thin stock. So I think I may have blown my budget for a big tool purchase until next season . The hidden costs of tooling is eating my budget . Blades Miter sleds . I am going on far too long but I would love to hear from both of you how your feelings are long term with the spindle. @@NYC_TH-camr_3765
@robertkrueger3902 I do have the master lift with the side crank. I can’t use the dust box because the dimensions of the underside cabinet I built (it’s in the video) doesn’t allow. I will be extending that cabinet with a custom enclosure though, it’s on my list.
JessEm products are top-notch. I own a few of their products; best machines I’ve ever used. Generally, you get what you pay for. And in this case, you are paying for a machine that will last a lifetime, so $500 is nothing compared to how long it is going to last. Plus, consider its resale value. I consider JessEm products to be an investment that lasts.
So soooo true, especially in this age of shoddy tools from who-knows-where! Are you gonna buy the Pow R Tek?
Nice review! Thanks.
Thanks for watching!