Can/should one oil router bits?

[shmokes]

I have a template bit that had a seized up bearing, but otherwise the bit was good and sharp.  I put oil on the bearing and twisted it back and forth for a couple minutes until it finally started budging a little.  I added more oil and kept at it and after a couple more minutes is spins smoothly.  But is this okay?  I have no idea whether this is proper or whether the bit is safe to use.

[ChadTower]

Unless it's a super expensive bit, dude, err on the side of caution.  The router is a dangerous mistress.

[Chadwick]

It should not be a problem.  Bearings wear out and need replacing just like carbide dulls and needs sharpening.  If you can get a little more use out of it by putting a little oil on the bearing, go for it.  It poses no danger since there is no load on the bearing anyway.  A replacement bearing can be purchased for 3-5 dollars

[shmokes]

Unless it's a super expensive bit, dude, err on the side of caution.  The router is a dangerous mistress.

It is.  It's a 1/2" shank, 1 1/2" long template bit that cost ~$25.  I didn't know that the bearings on router bits could be replaced, though.   That's awesome.  I'll have to measure mine and get a replacement.  Actually I've got a few bits that could use new bearings.  Also, who sharpens router bits?  Do you have to have it done, or can I sharpen it myself.  What equipment would I need?

By the way, another thing occurred to me about pattern bits that make them superior to flush trim bits.  Multiple passes.  You can't do multiple passes with a flush trim bit, which is kind of a pain in the ass if you're ripping through 3/4" material.

[Franco B]

Have a look at the bearing, there should be a number on it. Put that into google/ebay and you should be able to find a replacement. I could probably get one from work for you but shipping to the US would probably be more than the bearing itsself.

I actually has to change the main bearing inside the router itself recently as it had seized. Ive since learnt routing MDF upside down (using a routing table) without a dust extractor will cause the bearing to seize. I replaced the bearing and now use a dust extracor and all is well.

As regards to sharpening you bits, try to find a local machine shop. They should have tool grinding facilities or should be able to point you in the right direction. DON'T sharpen the router yourself if you dont have the correct machine tool/knowledge etc. You don't want anything but a perfectly uniform and correctly ground bit spinning at ~25,000 RPM.

Edited to add tool grinding machine tool picture.

[Chadwick]

This is a link to the website of the company I work for: www.activemachine.com


We are one of the premier machine shops for industrial tooling in the country.  If you are having trouble finding a local machine shop, send me a PM and let me know.  You could throw all your bits in a box and ship them to us.  We'll sharpen them all and replace whatever bearings need replacing.  Price for sharpening a 2 flute carbide tipped bit is $4.25 each.  Bearings run around 3-5 dollars.

[sstorkel]

This is a link to the website of the company I work for: www.activemachine.com


We are one of the premier machine shops for industrial tooling in the country.  If you are having trouble finding a local machine shop, send me a PM and let me know.  You could throw all your bits in a box and ship them to us.  We'll sharpen them all and replace whatever bearings need replacing.  Price for sharpening a 2 flute carbide tipped bit is $4.25 each.  Bearings run around 3-5 dollars.

This certainly sounds like a better bet than any of the local sharpening services I've used! The local guys really aren't worth the time and money, at least in my area. When my router bits get dull, I generally just replace them...