Xtreme Xstension or Eliminator or ?

[wizer]

Hi Guys

I got my new Freud FT3000 router the other day and after seeing the Xtreme Xtension at YOKB last week, I'm considering investing. Whilst searching around I came across the Eliminatorthat WoodRat sell. Does anyone have any experience with this. On the face of it, it's the same thing, only cheaper. It doesn't appear to be as universal as the XX and I will need to check that it will fit. The Freud looks very much like the T11, but I'm not entirely sure if they are indeed the same.

The XX from Rutlands is £60+PP so it would be nice to save money if possible. Any comments?

 

[Chris Knight]

I like the Eliminator better. It provides a useful extension capability although not as much as the Xtreme Xtension. However, I find it better balanced and easier to get a large bit going without excessive vibration.

Somewhere on the site, I posted in the past pix I took of the two things comparing lengths. The Eliminator is made to fit specific routers as it screws to the existing collet threads.

EDIT - here are the pics etc.
https://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/forums/view ... ght=xtreme

 

[wizer]

Thanks Chris. Woodrat lists the Freud 2000 as compatible but no other models. I might send him an email to see if he will take it back if it turns out not to be compatible.

 

[JFC]

Hi mate ,
The eliminator looks ok and also looks like its made by the same company as the XX and Legacy . Fantom i think but i dont really care who makes stuff as long as it works for me . You need to balance the xx in the collet ( collets ain't that good so extending them with the trend type extention just throws the cutter out more )
Once balanced you will love the xx until you need to use the router freehand and then the cutter is sticking out to much so you then buy another router to get over that problem and another xx :lol:
I think you need to look at what you need it for . extra depth the xx is the nuts but quick release ..... rubbish and i spend more time trying to sort out problems with the rounded over crappy hex hole thingy than it saves me . Bad design on all models with that feature . OK for light use but if you hammer it it lasts about a week :shock:
The eliminator has the same hex screw so the same problems i assume ?

 

[JMcK]

The only thing I would add is, if you get the Eliminator, get the T-bar Allen key which is a little extra (unless you already have one to fit).

I found the ordinary cranked Allen key was a bit fiddly.

 

[TobyB]

I have the XX on my T11 that lives in the table. The extra length really helps get the best out of cutters. The allen key is still a bit fiddly, but MUCH better than a spanner. No wobble or balancing problems experienced even when using large (50 mm +) cutters. Very pleased with it.

Possible problem Tom - I bought it from R*** ... and it was branded D*** ...

 

[maltrout512]

Wizer I've had the one from woodrat for about 2 years and have had no problems with it. What I have found that the 1/4 and 8mm sleeves that they and others sell tend to crush easy, this makes it difficult to extract the bit and sleeve. IMO too many slits in the collar. Have a look at the trend sleeves as they seem to have less slits. I could if you want take a photo to show you what I mean.

 

[Oryxdesign]

I thought I had the XX but now I realise I've got the eliminator It's very good and I like the way it fits on to the machine.

 

[Oryxdesign]

Does anybody have an eliminator fitted to a Makita router? Woodrat list one Makita as compatible but don't have any information on newer models. I want to fit one to a Makita RP2301FCX 1/2" Router.
Did you get a reply to your email Tom?

 

[JMcK]

Don't know if it helps but I have one fitted to a Makita 3612C. It's the one shown as for "Bosch and Makita" on their website.

 

[Argee]

You can't overcome the laws of physics, no matter what you spend, Tom. Every router instruction manual I've ever seen recommends removing the bit at the end of a session, yet many users leave their extensions in permanently. That can't do the collet any good, if the manuals are to be believed.

To get a collet without any runout at all is quite an achievement, but the very fact that you need to "balance" an extension before using it shows that runout will become an everyday occurrence to consider and overcome, due to the extension.

Finally, the extension changes the physical design of the machine and I can only see bearing overload with such a change, as it throws the C of G of the spinning mass further away from the lower shaft bearing. You wouldn't do that when turning with a chuck, why do it when routing?

Only me!

Ray

 

[newt]

You can't overcome the laws of physics, no matter what you spend, Tom. Every router instruction manual I've ever seen recommends removing the bit at the end of a session, yet many users leave their extensions in permanently. That can't do the collet any good, if the manuals are to be believed.

To get a collet without any runout at all is quite an achievement, but the very fact that you need to "balance" an extension before using it shows that runout will become an everyday occurrence to consider and overcome, due to the extension.

Finally, the extension changes the physical design of the machine and I can only see bearing overload with such a change, as it throws the C of G of the spinning mass further away from the lower shaft bearing. You wouldn't do that when turning with a chuck, why do it when routing?


Only me!

Ray

I agree stay away unless essential. Also consider if you had to make a warrenty claim would there be evidence that you have used an extension.

 

[paulm]

All I will say is that I have had my XX fitted permanently in my T11 for probably three, maybe four or more years now, and have no problems with run out, no problems with the router collet (on the few occasions I have removed the XX), and no problems with bearings wearing.

The finer theoretical points are all very well, but imho it's a great product and works perfectly well with no discernable practical issues over an extended period of time, and transforms router use in a table.

If there were lots of reported/recorded instances around on the net or elsewhere of any of the theoretical issues I might take them more seriously, but I haven't had any myself, nor noticed anybody else reporting them, although I stand to be corrected on that of course.

Great product, no affiliation etc .......

Cheers, Paul

 

[newt]

I suspect the bearings in quality routers will hold up a good deal longer than the cheaper ones. Do any of the router manufactures offer an extension for there own product, if not, why, just interested.

 

[Argee]

I'm pleased for you, Paul. I know of many others that use / have used them in the past without problems, just not for me.

Ray

 

[SVB]

Do any of the router manufactures offer an extension for there own product, if not, why, just interested.

I have a CMT extension for my router and I think Trend also make one.

As ever, common sense must come into play here. Often the extension is most useful when trying to get the most out of a small 1/4" bit. If you really want to extend a 1/2" panel raising bit for commercial use then expect all you get!

S

 

[wizer]

The reason i was considering one is because I've gone for a new Freud FT3000 in the RT. This has a push button arbor lock which you have to hold whilst using a spanner. As far as I can work out this would be impossible to do from above the table. So the XX or Eliminator would be most preferential for me personally, as one of the reasons for getting the new router was to stop below table activity (or the pain that accompanies it). I have taken on board the comments about run out and understand the dangers. But as Paul says, many seem pleased with this product, so I'll take the risk. Of course, if using a very large bit then I would take the extension out. At Ally Pally, Legacy Woodworking had their new CNC machine on display, the router was a bosch fixed base and it had the eliminator fixed to it. So if a CNC company have faith it it, then it must be a tried and tested product. We'll see. At least you all get a good laugh when you see the topic "$@*%&£" ELIMINATOR HAS $$*£&&" MY ROUTER" :lol:

PS: Simon, I've not emailed WoodRat yet. Too busy juggling funds around and buying more new toys