Woodpecker Router Table Lifts

By Ken Schulte

Woodpecker has some excellent router table lifts, but the new versions can be a bit confusing if you do not know exactly what to look for.  The new PRL series and PRL series sidewinder lifts are now divided into sizes according to what router you have with a small twist.  The deciding factor is really the diameter of the router motor.

The Sidewinder Series Router LIfts

SW420-350  fits motors that are 3.5 inches or less.  This is also advertised as fitting the Craftsman 17542, 17540 and 28190 as well as the Porter Cable 690/890 series and DeWalt 618.

SW420-414  fits motors that are 4.14" in diameter , Fits Milwaukee 5625

SW420-420 fits motors that are 4.20" in diameter, Fits Porter Cable 7518/7519

SW350 For 3.5" diameter motors ONLY, this lift is not compatible motor pads and fits routers Porter Cable 690/890, Bosch 1617/1618,
DeWalt 618, Craftsman 17542, 17540, 28190.  Allows bit changes without extensions or offset wrenches on all the smaller routers.

FAQ

What is the difference in the SW420-350 and the regular SW350?  My router fits both of these and I do not know which one I need?  If you plan on never getting a bigger router, you would want the SW350 (if your router is listed)  If you think you may want to upgrade later on you should choose the SW420-350 since you can change the pads out for a different motor

PRL-V2 Series Router Lifts

PRL-V2-350   Fits PC690/890, DeWalt 618, Craftsman 17542,17540, 28190, Bosch 1617/1618  The 690 and Bosch routers will require collet extensions or offset collet wrenches for above the table bit changes.

PRL-V2-414  Fits Milwaukee 5625

PRL-V2-420  Fits Porter Cable 7518

The main difference in the PRL series and the sidewinder series is the sidewinder handle mechanism.  You can buy the sidewinder conversion kit if you already own a PRL Lift.

FAQ

What does BD stand for on the PRL-V2 series lifts?  These are lifts that have plates that are sized for Bench Dog tables.  Normally you would never be able to use a Woodpecker in a Bench Dog table since the plate sizes are different.  However Woodpecker now offers a lift in Bench Dog sizes.

What are the Motor pads for and why are they offered seperately?  The regular PRL series use pads (small aluminum mold) to fit to your router.  If you buy the regular lift you will get the proper sized pad in the box with it.  If you someday choose to upgrade your router from a PC890 to a PC7518 for example, all you would have to do is buy new pads to make it fit instead of a whole new lift.