Loose Router Table Insert?

By Ken Schulte

Do you have a router table with an insert plate that is a tiny bit loose?  The solution to tighten it up is pretty simple. 

First of all,  you need to know that this is a very common occurrence in MDF, wood and particle board tables.  Most people think that MDF and particle do not move since they really do not have any wood in them.  In fact they do move, but not much.  However if you are doing some work that requires absolute precision, having the insert move a little is upsetting.  Understanding that all router tables move a bit with seasonal changes will help you eliminate a possible headache.

All you need is some sandpaper sheets, an Xacto blade, and some glue. 

1.  Determine how much the insert moves.  Then match up the size sandpaper you will most likely need.  80 Grit is a little thicker than a playing card.  You are going to cut sandpaper strips.

2.  Take the insert out of the top and slide the sandpaper edge in until it hits the bottom.  Let the insert come back down.  Fold the paper level to the table to give you the size strip that you need.

3.  Remove the paper and cut with a straight edge and Xacto blade.  Take that strip and dry fit it onto one side of the insert hole.  Determine if you need to put another on the other side.  Use a very thin layer of glue to hold it in place and reinsert the plate to help keep it there.

4.  When its time to replace the sandpaper you can easily peel it out since you used a thin layer of glue!