Bosch Power Tools 1618EVS, 16186, 1617EVSTB, 1617EVSPK, 1617EVS, 1617 User Manual
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IMPORTANT:IMPORTANT :IMPORTANTE:
Read Before UsingLire avant usageLeer antes de usar
Operating/Safety Instructions
Consignes de fonctionnement/sécurité
Instrucciones de funcionamiento y seguridad
1617
1617EVS
1617EVSPK
1618EVS
Call Toll Free for
Consumer Information
& Service Locations
1-877-BOSCH99 (1-877-267-2499) www.boschtools.com
For English VersionVersion françaiseVersión en español
See page 2Voir page 25Ver la página 48
Pour obtenir des informations
et les adresses de nos centres
de service après-vente,
appelez ce numéro gratuit
Llame gratis para
obtener información
para el consumidor y
ubicaciones de servicio
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General Power Tool Safety Warnings
WARNING
!
Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings
and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or
battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
Work area safety
Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
or dark areas invite accidents.
Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power
tools create sparks which may ignite the dust
or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
Electrical safety
Power tool plugs must match the outlet.
Never modify the plug in any way. Do not
us e a ny adapter pl ug s with earthe d
(grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs
and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric
shock.
Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded
surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges
and refrigerators. There is an increased risk
of electric shock if your body is earthed or
grounded.
Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord
for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power
tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp
edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool outdoors,
use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
reduces the risk of electric shock.
If operating a power tool in a damp location
is unavoidable, use a Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of
an GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal safety
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and
us e co mmon sense w hen opera ting a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while
you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention
while operating power tools may result in
serious personal injury.
Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard
hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate
conditions will reduce personal injuries.
Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the
sw itch is in th e o ff-po sitio n b efore
connecting to power source and / or battery
pa ck, picki ng up or carrying the t ool.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the
switch or energizing power tools that have the
switch on invites accidents.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench before
turning the power tool on. A wrench or a
key left attached to a rotating part of the
power tool may result in personal injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better
co ntrol of the power to ol in unexpe ct ed
situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing
or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose
clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in
moving parts.
If devices are provided for the connection
of dust extraction and collection facilities,
ensure these are connected and properly
used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-
related hazards.
Power tool use and care
Do not forc e the power to ol. Use the
correct power tool for your application. The
correct power tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
Do not use the power tool if the switch does
not turn it on and off. Any power tool that
ca nn ot be co nt ro ll ed wi th th e swi tc h is
dangerous and must be repaired.
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Disconnect the plug from the power source
and/or the battery pack from the power tool
before making any adjustments, changing
accessories, or storing power tools. Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of
starting the power tool accidentally.
Store idle power tools out of the reach of
children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with the power tool or these instructions to
operate the power tool. Power tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment
or binding of moving parts, breakage of
parts and any other condition that may
affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged,
have the power tool repaired before use.
Ma ny acci de nt s ar e ca us ed by poorly
maintained power tools.
Safety Rules for Routers
Hold power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces, because the cutter may contact
its own cord. Cutting a ”live” wire may make
exposed metal parts of the power tool ”live”
and shock the operator.
Use clamps or another practical way to
secure and support the workpiece to a
stable platform. Holding the work by your
hand or against the body leaves it unstable
and may lead to loss of control.
Do not drill, fasten or break into existing
walls or other blind areas where electrical
wiring ma y ex ist. If this s it ua tion is
unavoidable, disconnect all fuses or circuit
breakers feeding this worksite.
Always make sure the work surface is
free from nails and other foreign objects.
Cutting into a nail can cause the bit and the
tool to jump and damage the bit.
Never hold the workpiece in one hand and
the tool in the other hand when in use.
Never place hands near or below cutting
surface. Clamping the material and guiding
the tool with both hands is safer.
Never lay workp ie ce on top of hard
surfaces, li ke co nc re te, stone, etc. ..
Protruding cutting bit may cause tool to jump.
Alway s wear safety goggles and dust
mask. Use only in well ventilated area.
Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to
control.
Use the power tool, accessories and tool
bits etc. in accordance with these instructions,
taking into account the working conditions
and the work to be performed. Use of the
power tool for operations different from those
intended could result in a hazardous situation.
Service
Have your power tool serviced by a qualified
re pa ir person u sing on ly identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the
safety of the power tool is maintained.
Using personal safety devices and working in
safe environment reduces risk of injury.
After changing the bits or making any
adjustments, make sure the collet nut and
any ot her ad justmen t devices are
se cu re ly ti gh te ned. L oo se ad ju st me nt
device can unexpectedly shift, causing loss
of control, loose rotating components will be
violently thrown.
Never start the too l wh en the bi t is
engaged in the material. The bit cutting
edge may grab the material causing loss of
control of the cutter.
Al wa ys hold the to ol with two ha nd s
during start-up. The reaction torque of the
motor can cause the tool to twist.
The direction of feeding the bit into the
material is very important and it relates to
the direction of bit rotation. When viewing
th e tool from t he to p, the bit rot at es
clockwise. Feed direction of cutting must
be counter-clockwise. NOTE: inside and
outside cu ts will req ui re differe nt feed
direction, refer to se ction on fee ding the
router. Feed in g the to ol in the wro ng
direction, causes the cutting edge of the bit
to climb out of the work and pull the tool in
the direction of this feed.
Never use dull or damaged bits. Sharp
bits must be handled with care. Damaged
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bits can snap during use. Dull bits require
more force to push the tool, possibly causing
the bit to break.
Never touch the bit during or immediately
after the use. After use the bit is too hot to
be touched by bare hands.
Never lay the tool down until the motor
has come to a complete standstill. The
spinning bit can grab the surface and pull the
tool out of your control.
Additional Safety Warnings
GFCI and personal protection devices like
electrician’s rubber gloves and footwear will
further enhance your personal safety.
Do not use AC only rated tools with a DC
power supply. While the tool may appear to
work, the electrical components of the AC
rated tool are likely to fail and create a hazard
to the operator.
Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil
and grease. Slippery hands cannot safely
control the power tool.
Use clamps or other practical way to secure
and support the work pie ce to a stable
platform. Holding the work by hand or against
your body leaves it unstable and may lead to
loss of control.
Develop a periodic maintenance schedule
for your tool. When cleaning a tool be
careful not to disassemble any portion of
th e tool sinc e interna l wires may be
misplaced or pinched or safety guard return
sp rings may be improperly moun ted.
Certain cleaning agents such as gasoline,
Never use bi ts t hat ha ve a cut ti ng
diameter greater than the opening in the
base.
The rated speed of the accessory must be
at least equal to the ma ximum sp eed
marked on the power tool. Accessories
running faster than their RATED SPEED can
break and fly apart.
carbon tetrachloride, ammonia, et c. may
damage plastic parts.
Risk of injury to user. The power cord must only
be serviced by a Bosch Factory Service Center
or Autho rized Bosch Service Station.
WARNING
!
drilling, and other construction activities
contains chemicals known to cause cancer,
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Some examples of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead-based paints,
• Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and
other masonry products, and
• Arsenic and chromiu m from chemicallytreated lumber.
Yo ur ri sk from these expo su re s var ie s,
depending on how often you do this type of
work. To reduce your exposure to these
chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and
work with approved safety equipment, such as
those dust masks that are specially designed
to filter out microscopic particles.
Some dust created by power
sanding, sawing, grinding,
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Safety Rules for Router Table
Read and understand the tool manual and
these instructions for the use of this table
wi th yo ur ro ut er . Fa il ur e to f ol lo w all
instructions listed below may result in serious
personal injury.
Unplug tool before setting up in table,
making adj ust ments or changing bits.
Accidental start-up of the to ol can cause
injury.
Fully ass em ble and tig ht en al l the
fa st en er s required f or th is table and
mounting the router. Also remember to
occasionally check the stand and make sure
it is still tight. A loose stand is unstable and
may shift in use and cause serious injury.
Before operati ng make sure the e ntire
unit is pla ce d on a soli d, f la t, level
surface. Serious injury could occur if tool is
unstable and tips.
Never stand on the table or use as ladder
or scaffolding. Serious injury could occur if
th e table is tipped or the cutting tool i s
acciden ta ll y contac te d. Do not st or e
materials on or near the table such that it is
necessary to stand on the table or its stand
to reach them.
Never use dull or damaged bits. Sharp
bits must be handled with care. Damaged
bits can snap during use. Dull bits require
more force to push the workpiece, possibly
causing the bit to break.
Match the appropriate bit and its speed to
your application. Do not use bits that
have a cutting diameter that exceeds the
capacity of the tool. Overloading the tool
can lead to personal injury or tool failure.
Never start the too l wh en the bi t is
engaged in the material. The bit cutting
edge may grab the material causing loss of
control of the workpiece.
Router bits are intended for wood, wood
products and plastic only. Be sure the
workpiece does not contain na ils, etc.
before routing. Cutting a nail or the like will
ca us e the car bi de s to be di slodged, fly
toward the operator side, and possibly strike
you or bystanders.
Feed the workpiece against the rotation of
the bit. The bit rotates counter-clockwise
as viewed from the top of table. Feeding
the work in the wrong direction will cause the
workpiece to "climb" up on the bit and may
lead to loss of control during operation.
Never place hands near the spinning bit.
Use push sticks, vertical and horizontally
mounted feather boards (spring sticks)
and other jigs to hold down the workpiece
and keep yo ur hands aw ay from t he
spinning bit. Router cuts are blind cuts but
the bit still protrudes through the table and
you must be aware of the position of your
hands relative to the spinning bit.
We do not recommend cutting material
that is war pe d, wobbly o r otherw is e
unstable. If this situation is unavoidable
always cut the material with the concave
side against the table. Cutting the material
with the concave side up or away from table
may cause the warped or wobbly material to
roll; causing you to lose control, kickback and
serious personal injury may result.
Use the a dj us table fe nc e in stra ig ht
cutting applications. When routing along
an entire edge of the work, the fence, fence
faces, and adjustable outfeed fence support
shims will help maintain stability.
When the table is used without the fence,
piloted bits (or "bearing bits") must be
used. Piloted bits are used when routing
interna l a nd externa l c on tours o n a
workpiece. The bearing of the piloted bit
assists in m ai nt aining c ontrol o f t he
workpiece. Whenever possible, the starter
pin should also be used.
After changing the bits or making any
adjustments, make sure the collet nut and
any ot her ad justmen t devices are
se curel y tigh tened . Lo ose ad justm ent
device can unexpectedly shift, causing loss
of control, loose rotating components will be
violently thrown.
Never touch the bit during or immediately
after the use. Contact with a spinning bit
will cause injury and after use the bit is too
hot to be touched by bare hands.
Use only Bosch replacement parts. Any
others may create a hazard.
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Symbols
IMPORTANT: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them
and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the
tool better and safer.
SymbolNameDesignation/Explanation
VVoltsVoltage (potential)
AAmperesCurrent
HzHertzFrequency (cycles per second)
WWattPower
kgKilogramsWeight
minMinutesTime
sSecondsTime
DiameterSize of drill bits, grinding wheels, etc.
n
nRated speedMaximum attainable speed
.../minRevolutions or reciprocation Revolutions, strokes, surface speed,
0Off positionZero speed, zero torque...
1, 2, 3, ...Selector settingsSpeed, torque or position settings.
I, II, III,Higher number means greater speed
No load speedRotational speed, at no load
0
per minuteorbits etc. per minute
Infinitely variable selector with offSpeed is increasing from 0 setting
ArrowAction in the direction of arrow
Alternating currentType or a characteristic of current
Direct currentType or a characteristic of current
Alternating or direct currentType or a characteristic of current
Wear eye protection symbolAlerts user to wear eye protection
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Symbols (continued)
IMPORTANT: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them
and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the
tool better and safer.
This symbol designates that this tool is listed by Underwriters Laboratories.
This symbol designates that this tool is recognized by Underwriters Laboratories.
This symbol designates that this tool is listed by Underwriters Laboratories,
to United States and Canadian Standards.
This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Canadian Standards
Association.
This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Canadian Standards
Association, to United States and Canadian Standards.
This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Intertek Testing
Services, to United States and Canadian Standards.
This symbol designates that this tool complies to NOM Mexican Standards.
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Functional Description and Specifications
WARNING
!
Di sc onnect t he plug fro m the pow er source bef or e making an y
assembly, adjustments or changing accessories. Such preventive safety
measures reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
Routers
SPEED CONTROL DIAL
Models 1617EVS
& 1618EVS only
ROCKER ON\OFF
SWITCH
BASE CLAMP LEVER
ROUND
HANDLE
SUB-BASE
BIT ROTATION ARROW
AIR VENTS
FIG. 1
1617EVS
MOTOR HOUSING
MOTOR ALIGNMENT
ARROW
BASE TYPE S
CHIP DEFLECTOR
TEMPLET GUIDE
QUICK CHANGE LEVER
(Not included, available as
accessory)
SPEED CONTROL DIAL
Models 1617EVS
& 1618EVS only
POWER ON/OFF
SWITCH
BASE TYPE D
REVERSIBLE
HANDLE
BIT ROTATION ARROW
AIR VENTS
FIG. 2
1618EVS
"LOCK-ON"
BUTTON
TRIGGER
SWITCH
D-HANDLE
TEMPLET GUIDE
QUICK CHANGE LEVER
(Not included, available as accessory)
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2
1
0
IN
50
40
30
20
10
0
MM
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FIG. 3
1617EVSPK
AIR VENTS
SPEED CONTROL DIAL
Model 1617EVSP only
MOTOR HOUSING
PLUNGE LOCK
LEVER
PLUNGE HANDLE
DEPTH ROD FINE
ADJUSMENT KNOB
DEPTH ROD
DEPTH STOP TURRET
BASE TYPE P
ROCKER ON\OFF SWITCH
ALIGNMENT ARROW
DEPTH INDICATOR
DEPTH ROD KNOB
CHIP DEFLECTOR
SUB-BASE
BIT ROTATION ARROW
Collet capacities 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 8mm
NOTE: For tool specifications refer to the nameplate on your tool.
MOTOR
RA1161 fixed-base shop router base marked type "S" is designed for use with these router motors:
1617 router motor (16171)
1617EVS router motor (16176)
1618EVS router motor (16186)
RA1162 D-handle router base marked type "D" is designed only for use with these router motors:
1618EVS router motor (16186)
RA1166 plunge router base marked type "P" is designed for use with these router motors:
1617 router motor (16171)
1617EVS router motor (16176)
1618EVS router motor (16186)
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Assembly
A wide assortment of router bits with different
profiles is available separately. Use 1/2"
shank whenever possible, and only use good
quality bits.
WARNING
!
from power source before removing or
installing bits or accessories.
INSTALLING A ROUTER BIT
Place router upside down or lay router on its
side with the base resting on the bench.
Another option is to remove the motor from
the base before installing the bit.
1. Remove the chip shield (or flip up if plunge
base is attached.
2. Hold the armature shaft in place with the
shaft wrench (Fig. 4)
3. Next, use the collet wrench to loosen the
collet c huck a ss embly in cou nt erclockwise direction (viewed from under the
router).
4. Once you have verified that the bit's shank
is of the proper diameter for the collet to
be used, insert the shank of the router bit
into the collet chuck assembly as far as it
will go, then back the shank out until the
cutters are approximately 1/8" to 1/4" away
from the collet nut face.
5. With the router bit inserted and the shaft
wrench holding the armature shaft, use the
collet wrench to firmly tighten the collet
chuck assembly in a clockwise direction
(viewed from under the router). To ensure
proper gri pp in g of the route r bit and
minimize run-out, the shank of the router
bit must be inserted at least 5/8".
To prevent personal injury,
al wa ys remov e the p lu g
FIG. 4
COLLET
WRENCH
To tighten or loosen collet nut, hold both
wrenches in one hand and and squeeze
the wrenches together.
WARNING
!
base, do not use router bits greater than
2" in diameter as they will not fit through
the sub-base.
WARNING
!
opening for the bit and cutter.
CAUTION
!
without a bit.
NOTE: The bit shank and chuck should be
clean and free of dust, wood, residue and
grease before assembling.
REMOVING THE ROUTER BIT
1. Use the shaft and collet chuck wrenches
as described earlier, and turn the collet
chuck assembly in a counter-clockwise
direction.
2. Once t he c ol le t chuck assem bl y is
loosened continue to turn the collet chuck
assembly until it pulls the collet free from
its t ap er , and the route r bit can be
removed.
NOTE: The collet chuck is self-extracting; it
is NOT necessary to strike the collet chuck to
free the router bit.
When t he templet guid e
ha s been remov ed fro m
Cutter diameter must be at
least 1/4” smal le r th an
To prevent d am ag e to
tool, do not tighten collet
SHAFT
WRENCH
With the router bit removed, continue to turn
COLLET CHUCK CARE
the collet chuck counter-clockwise until it is
fr ee of the shaft . To as sure a firm gri p,
occasionally blow out the collet chuck with
compressed air, and clean the taper in the
armature assembly shaft with a tissue or fine
brush. The collet chuck is made up of two
component parts as illustrated (Fig. 5); check
to see that the collet is properly seated in the
collet chuck nut and lightly thread the collet
chuck back onto the armature shaft. Replace
worn or damaged collet chucks immediately.
FIG. 5
COLLET
COLLET
CHUCK
COLLET
NUT
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REMOVING MOTOR FROM BASE (Fig. 6)
To remove motor from non-plunge bases:
1. Hold router in horizontal position, open base
clamp lever, depress coarse adjustment
lever, and pull motor upwards until it stops.
2. Turn motor counter-clockwise, and gently
pull it free of base.
To remove motor from plunge base: (Fig. 7)
1. Hold router in horizontal position, open base
clamp lever, and pull motor upwards until it
stops.
2. Turn motor counter-clockwise, and gently
pull it free of base.
INSTALLING MOTOR IN BASE
The motor can be installed with the switch
positioned on the right or left of the base from
the operator's side (and the cord facing the
opposite side of the router). Install the motor so
that the switch is in the location you find to be
the most easily accessible from the handles.
The switch should be easier to turn "OFF" than
"ON" in case of an emergency.
To install motor in non-plunge base:
1. Release the base clamp lever.
2. Line up the arrow on the base with arrow on
the motor. (Fig. 8)
• To position switch on the right side of the
base, line up the base’s arrow with motor
housing’s arrow that is below the cord.
• To position switch on the left, line up the
base’s arrow with motor housing’s arrow
that is below the switch.
3. While pressing the coarse adjustment lever,
slide motor into base until resistance in felt.
(The base’s guide pin is now engaged into
slot on motor.)
4. Continue to press coarse adjustment lever,
and turn the motor clockwise until it stops.
5. Push the motor into the base until it reaches
the approximate desired depth.
6. Release the coarse adjustment lever and
slide the motor forward or back as needed
until the coarse adjustment system’s “catch”
springs into the coarse adjustment detent
notch.
7. Set final height position as described below
in “Operating Instructions”.
To install motor in plunge base:
1. Release the base clamp lever.
2. Line up the arrow on the base with arrow on
the motor. (Fig. 8)
• To position switch on the right side of the
base, line up the base’s arrow with arrow
on the motor housing that is below the
cord.
• To position switch on the left, line up the
base’s arrow with arrow on the motor
housing that is below the switch.
3. Slide motor into base until resistance in felt.
(The base’s guide pin is now engaged into
slot on motor.)
4. Turn the motor clockwise until it stops.
5. Push the motor into the base as far as it will
go.
6. Fasten the base clamp lever.
FIG. 6
COARSE
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
BASE CLAMP LEVER
FIG. 7
BASE
CLAMP
LEVER
MOTOR
FIG. 8
ALIGNMENT
ARROWS
BASE
COARSE
ADJUSTMENT
NOTCHES
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CHIP DEFLECTOR
WARNING
!
deflector is not intended as a safety guard.
The chip deflectors help keep dust and chips
out of your face, it will not stop objects larger
than dust thrown from the bit.
To remov e chip shield from bases, press
inward on tabs until it releases from base and
remove. To attach, place deflector into position
as shown in (Fig. 9). Then flex s ides o f
deflector while pushing until it snaps into place.
The plunge base’s chip shield can also be
flipped out.
Al ways we ar eye
pr otectio n. Th e c hi p
FIG. 9
Operating Instructions
FIG. 10
FINE ADJUSTMENT DIAL
INDICATOR RING
CAST INDICATOR MARKS
COARSE
ADJUSTMENT
LEVER
B
Bo sch routers are designed for speed,
accuracy a nd con venience i n performing
cabinet work, routing, fluting, beading, covecutting, dove tails, etc. They will enable you to
accomplish inlay work, decorative edges and
many types of special carving.
DEPTH ADJUSTMENT
WITH FIXED BASE
Router’s RA1161 fixed base are equipped with
a true microme ter typ e fine adjustm ent
mechanism, which can be used in any position
and provides precise adjustment of the router
bit position for unmatched accuracy. When the
tool is lowered to the approximate position
de sired, this device may b e ad ju sted t o
precisely set the final bit position.
A
Your router also features three horizontal
notches on both sides of the motor housing for
coarse adjustments. The notches are spaced
1/2" apart which allows you to quickly lower or
raise the tool depth in three 1/2" increments.
(A pproximat ely 12.7 mm), by simply
depressing the coarse adjustment release
lever.
NOTE: All depth adjustments must be made
with the base clamp lever released.
1. Hold the tool in a horizontal position with the
base clamp lever facing you.
2. Open the base clamp lever to release the
motor.
BASE CLAMP LEVER
TO ADJUST DEPTH
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3. COARSE ADJUSTMENT:
To make a large depth adjustment, depress
coarse adjustment release lever and raise or
lo wer to desir ed dep th. Th ere ar e th ree
no tches in t he m otor h ousing whic h are
spaced 1/2" to facilitate this adjustment.
4. FINE DEPTH ADJUSTMENT:
To use the fine adjustment feature, turn the
fine adjustment knob clockwise to lower the
router bit or counter-clockwise to raise it.
NOTE: Be sure coarse adjustment lever is
engaged in one of the coarse adjustment
notches before making a fine adjustment.
To allow precise settings, the indicator ring is
graduated in English and Metric increments.
(Note: one full turn of fine adjustment knob =
1/16" o r approximately 1. 5 mm. The fine
adjustment mechanism has a total adjustment
range of 7/8" (23 mm). Each cast indicator
mark next to coarse adjustment lever is equal
to 1/8"
To prevent damage to tool, avoid wedging the
coarse adjustment lever against the upper A or
lower B portion of the housing as shown in
figure 10.
5. After making depth adjustments, re-clamp
the motor.
The indicator ring may be reset to zero without
moving the fine adjustment knob, to allow the
us er to begin the adj ustment fro m an y
reference point desired.
When the router is installed in a router table,
it can be adjusted with a 1/8” hex wrench, not
included with all models. (See page 21).
The RA10 02 Fi ne Adjustm en t C ontrol
Extension, an optional accessory for the non-
plunge bases, allows fine adjustment from
beyond the top of the motor housing. To
install, simply press the RA1002 into the end
of the base’s own fine adjus tment knob.
(Fig. 11)
TO CLAMP MOTOR
When final coarse and fine adjustments have
been made, fasten the base clamp lever to
secure adjustments. (If additional clamping
force i s desired: using a 10 mm wrench,
rotate clamp nut clockwise SLIGHTLY (1/8
turn or less), then test clamp. Do not overtighten.)
DEEP CUTS
For deeper cuts, make several progressively
deeper cuts by starting at one depth and
th en make several su bs equent passe s,
increasing the cutting depth with each pass.
To be certain that your depth settings are as
desired, you may want to make test cuts in
scrap material before beginning work.
FIG. 11
DEPTH ADJUSTMENT WITH PLUNGE
BASE PLUNGING ACTION
Th e pl unge fe at ure simplif ies depth
adjustments and will allow the cutting bit to
easily and accurately enter the workpiece. To
lower, push plunge lock lever to the left, apply
downward pressure until you reach desired
depth, and release pressure on lever to lock
(Fig. 12 ). The plunge lock lever is spr ing
loaded and returns automatically to the locked
position. To raise the router, push plunge lock
lever to the left, release pressure on router and
the router will automatically retract the bit from
the workpiece. It is advisable to retract the bit
whenever it is not engaged in work piece.
FIG. 12
-13-
2
1
0
IN
50
40
30
20
10
0
MM
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 14
The depth rod and the depth stop turret are
DEPTH ROD AND TURRET
used to control cutting depth as follows;
1. With the bit installed, gently lower the motor
until the tip of the router bit just contacts the
level surface the router is sitting on. This is
the “zero” position, from which further depth
adjustments can be accurately made.
2. To set a desired depth of cut, rotate depth
stop turret until the lowest step is aligned
with the depth rod. Loosen depth indicator
kn ob an d lower the depth rod until it
contacts the lowest step of the turret. Slide
FIG. 13
DEPTH
INDICATOR
DEPTH INDICATOR
KNOB
DEPTH ROD FINE
ADJUSMENT KNOB
the depth indicator until the red line indicates
zero on the depth scale, indicating the point
at w hich the bit jus t contacts the w ork
(Fig. 13).
3. To set a desired cutting depth, slide the
depth rod up until the red depth indicator line
attains the desired cutting depth, and secure
the rod in position by firmly tightening the
depth indicator knob.
4. The desir ed dep th of cut may n ow b e
achieved by plunging the router until the
depth rod contacts the selected stop on the
turret.
DEPTH ROD
DEPTH STOP
TURRET
DEEP CUTS
For deeper cuts, make several progressively
deeper cuts by starting with the highest step on
the depth turret, and after each cut, rotate the
depth turret to progressively lower steps as
desired, until the final depth (lowest step or flat)
is reached. Steps progress by 1/8” increments.
To be certain that your depth settings are as
desired, you may want to make test cuts in
scrap material before beginning work.
FINE ADJUSTMENT
The RA1166 plunge base is equipped with a
fine adjustment system that allows you to
micro adjust the plunge depth of the router bit
for superior routing accuracy.
Ea ch comple te revoluti on of th e fine
adjustment stop adjusts the plunging depth by
1/32”, and each of the four indicator marks on
the knob represents 1/128”. One of the four
tick marks is larger than the other to indicate a
complete revolution. A reference indicator line
is built in to the depth rod.
To use the fine adjustment knob, once the
depth rod and turret have been set, check the
final depth setting and fine-adjust as follows:
To micro-increase the plunge depth, raise the
fine adjustment stop by turning it counterclockwise by the desired amount.
To micro-reduce the plunge depth, lower the
fine adjustment stop by turning it clockwise by
the desired amount.
-14-
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 15
Notes:
• When micro-adjusting the plunge depth, it is
mo re conv enient t o mo ve th e fi ne
adjustme nt stop up than down. Before
setting the depth rod and turret, make sure
the fine adjustment stop has been turned
se veral revo lutions do wn from its top
position so that it can be adjusted upward.
• The fine adjustment stop cannot be use to
reduce the plunge depth when the depth rod
is already touching the depth stop turret.
ROCKER “ON/OFF” SWITCH
Your tool can be turned “ON” or “OFF” by the
rocker switch located on the motor housing.
One side of the switch is marked “I” for “ON“,
and the other side of switch is marked “O” for
“OFF“. Also the edge of switch displays red
when switch is in the “ON“ position.
TO TURN THE TOOL “ON”: Push the side of
the switch marked “I”.
TO TURN THE TOOL “OFF”: Push the side
of the switch marked “O”.
Always hold the router off the work when
turning the switch on or off. Contact the work
with the router after the router has reached full
speed, and remove it from the work before
turning the switch off. Operating in this manner
will prolong switch and motor life and will
greatly increase the quality of your work (Fig. 1).
ROCKER POWER "ON-OFF" WITH
TRIGGER SWITCH AND "LOCK-
The power is switched "ON" by the rocker
switch located on the top of the motor housing
as described above. Now your tool can be
tu rned "ON" or "OFF " by squ eezing or
releasing the trigger. Your tool is also equipped
with “Lock-ON” button located just above the
trigger that allows continuous operation without
holding the trigger (Fig. 2).
TO LOCK SWITCH ON: Squeeze trigger,
depress button and release trigger.
TO UNLOCK THE SWITCH: Squeeze trigger
and release it without depressing the “LockON” button.
WARNING
!
depressed, the trigger cannot be released.
On model 1617 hold the tool with both hands
while starting the tool, since torque from the
motor can cause the tool to twist.
ON"BUTTON
(Model 1618EVS only)
If the “Lock-ON” button is
co ntinuou sl y be ing
The router must be raised before such an
adjustment can be made.
• Also available is an alternative turret that
has an adjustable step which uses an M4
sc rew fo r the ad ju stable step. Th e
adjustable step makes it possible to make
multiple-pass applications without having to
make a fine depth adjustment even when
the total cutting depth is not a multiple of
1/8".
SOFT START FEATURE
(Models 1617EVS & 1618EVS only)
Electronic feedback control minimizes torque
twist customary in larger routers by limiting the
speed at which motor starts.
ELECTRONIC VARIABLE
(Models 1617EVS & 1618EVS only)
The electronic speed control feature allows
motor speed to be matched to cutter size and
ma terial hardnes s fo r i mp roved finish ,
extended bit life, and higher performance.
Speed c hanges are achieved by rotating
Control Dial RIGHT to increase speed, LEFT
to decrease as indicated on housing (Fig. 1).
Speed may be changed while tool is on. The
reference numbers on the dial facilitate resetting control to desired speed.
The speed chart indicates the relationship
between settings and application, exact settings
are determined by operator experience and
preference. The bit manufacturer may also
have a speed recommendation.
DIAL
SETTINGRPMAPPLICATION
18,000
213,500
316,500
420,000
521,500
625,000
CONSTANT RESPONSE™ CIRCUITRY
(Models 1617EVS & 1618EVS only)
The router's Constant Response™ Circuitry
monitors and adjusts power to maintain the
desired RPM for consistent performance and
control.
SPEED CONTROL
Nonferrous metals,
larger diameter bits
}
and cutters
Softwoods, plastics,
counter tops, smaller
}
diameter bits and
cutters
-15-
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 16
As seen from the top of the router, the bit turns
FEEDING THE ROUTER
cl ockwise an d the cuttin g e dges face
accordingly. Therefore, the most efficient cut is
made by feeding the router so that the bit turns
into the work, not away. Figure 14 shows
proper feed for various cuts. How fast you feed
depends on the hardness of the material and
the size of the cut. For some materials, it is
best to make several cuts of increasing depth.
FIG. 14
START
HERE
WORK
BIT
DIRECTION OF
ROUTER FEED
If the router is hard to control, heats up, runs
ve ry sl owly or le aves an imperfect cu t,
consider these causes:
1. Wrong direction of feed — hard to control.
2. Feeding too fast — overloads motor.
3. Dull bit — overloads motor.
4. Cut is too large for one pass — overloads
motor.
5. Feeding too slow — leaves friction burns on
work.
Feed smoothly and steadily (do not force). You
will soon learn how the router sounds and feels
when it is working best.
RATE OF FEED
When routing or doing related work in wood
and plastics, the best finishes will result if the
depth of cut and feed rate are regulated to
keep the motor operating at high speed. Feed
the router at a moderate rate. Soft materials
require a faster feed rate than hard materials.
The router may stall if improperly used or
overloaded. Reduce the feed rate to prevent
possible damage to the tool. Always be sure
the collet chuck is tightened securely before
use. Always use router bits with the shortest
cu tting len gth necessa ry t o pr oduce the
desired cut. This will minimize router bit run-out
and chatter.
The router can be guided through the work in
GUIDING THE ROUTER
any of several ways. The method you use
depends, of course, on the demands of the
particular job and on convenience.
For routing operations such as grooving or
dadoing, it is often necessary to guide the tool
in a line parallel t o a st raight edg e. One
method of obtaining a straight cut is to securely
clamp a board or other straightedge to the
work surface, and guide the edge of the router
sub-base along this path (Fig. 15).
FIG. 15
SECURELY CLAMP
BOARD GUIDE
-16-
FEED
DIRECTION
BOARD GUIDE
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 17
ROUTER DUST COLLECTION
There are three optional dust extraction hood
accessories. Each dust extraction hood is
sized to accept 35mm vacuum hoses. Each
accessory pack includes the VAC002 adapter
that will connect the hood to 1-1/4” and 1-1/2”
vacuum hoses. An adapter to connect the
ho od to 2-1/2" hoses is als o availa ble
separately.
ROUTER DUST COLLECTION FOR
This dust extraction hood is designed for use
the plunge base (RA1166) when routing is
done in the middle of the workpiece, such as
when creating slots or routing patterns for
inlays. If you have a shop vacuum system, you
ca n att ach the dust extra ct ion hood fo r
im proved visibi li ty, ac curacy and u tility,
particularly in freehand routing.
To attach, position as shown and secure
ad apter to base with th e thum bscrews
provided (Fig. 16).
DUST EXTRACTION HOOD FOR
!
WARNING
manual for use of these accessories.
Do not reach in area of the bit while the
router is ON or plugged in.
CAUTION
!
extraction hood at the same time as any
other dust extraction hood.
This dust extraction hood is designed for use
with Bosch routers 1617, 1617EVS, 1618EVS
and their fixed bases when the routing is done
in the middle of the workpiece, such as when
creating slots or routing out patterns for inlays.
To attach the hood to the router base, slide
the hood into the backside of the router base
around the router’s depth adjustment rod with
the hood’s rounded corners facing up (Fig. 17
& 18). Se curely t ighten t he two knurled
thumbscrews.
USING THE HOOD FOR BACKSIDE OF
For maximum dust collection effectiveness,
make sure the router’s chip shield is in place.
PLUNGE BASE
BACKSIDE OF FIXED BASE
Read and understand these
in st ru ct ions and tool
To avoid entangling hoses,
do not u se th is dust
FIXED BASE
FIG. 16
DUST EXTRACTION HOOD
(Optional Accessory)
The dust extraction hood can also be installed
with the hose outlet facing the front of the tool.
If the templet guide adapter is installed, it will
need to be reversed or removed to allow the
release lever to fit under the dust hood.
M4 THUMB
SCREWS
FIG. 17
M5 SCREW
DUST
EXTRACTION
HOOD
ROUTER
BASE
FIG. 18
-17-
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 18
EDGEFORMING DUST
EXTRACTION HOOD
!
WARNING
Do not reach in area of the
bit while the router is ON or
plugged in. To avoid entangling hoses, do
not use this dust extraction hood at the
same time as any other dust extraction
hood.
This dust extraction hood (optional accessory)
is used for dust collection when edge-forming
(Fig. 19).
ATTACHING DUST EXTRACTION HOOD
You can attach the edge-forming hood in
several places according to your needs or
preferences. This hood is attached using two
of the screw holes on the router base that are
used to attach the router’s sub-base. Choose
the desired location for the hood. Loosen and
take out the two screws from the router base
and attach the dust extraction hood — over the
router’s sub-base — using the screws provided
with the hood. Securely tighten the screws.
(Figures 20 & 21).
FIG. 21
OTHER BASES
FIG. 19
ROUTER
SUB-BASE
WORKPIECE
EDGE
DUST
EXTRACTION
HOOD
M4 x 16mm
SCREW
FIG. 20
PLUNGE BASE
M4 x 16mm
SUB-BASE
SCREW
M4 x 16mm
SCREW
DUST
EXTRACTION
HOOD
DUST
EXTRACTION
HOOD
M4 x 16mm
SCREW
-18-
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 19
DELUXE ROUTER GUIDE
(Not included, available as accessory)
The Bosch deluxe router guide is an optional
accessory that will guide the router parallel to a
straight edge or allow you to create circles and
arcs.
The deluxe router guide is supplied with two
rods and screws to fasten the guide (Fig. 22).
In addition, it features a fine adjustment knob
and indicator for accurately positioning the
edge guide relative to the bit. With the guide
installed and adjusted, the router should be fed
FIG. 22
BASE
CUT
DESIRED
WIDTH
M6 WING
SCREW
WORKPIECE
normally, keeping the guide in contact with the
edge of the workpiece at all times. The deluxe
router guide may also be positioned directly
under the router base for operations where a
cut is needed close to or at the edge of the work.
The deluxe ro uter guid e in cludes a dust
extraction hood and the VAC002 vacuum hose
adapter.
For complete instructions on installation and
operation, please refer to the instructions
which are included with this accessory.
FEED
DIRECTION
M6 WING SCREW
FINE
ADJUSTMENT
INDICATOR
ROUTER
GUIDE
FINE
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
RODS
This router can also be used with the optional
TEMPLET GUIDES
Bosch-exclusive quick-change templet guide
system, which firmly grips the guides with a
sp ring-load ed ri ng. Unl ik e conve ntional
threaded templet guides, there is no threaded
ring that can come loose while routing.
Templet guides are used with a number of
special accessories, such as hinge templets,
which are listed in your BOSCH catalog. In
addition, special templets are easily prepared
for cu tt ing re pe ated p at te rns, s pe cial
designs, inlays, and other applications. A
templet pattern may be made of plywood,
hardboard, metal or even plastic, and the
design can be cut with a router, jigsaw, or
other suitable cutting tool. Remember that
the p at te rn will h av e to b e m ad e to
compensate for the distance between the
router bit and the templet guide (the “offset”),
as the final workpiece will differ in size from
the templet pattern by that amount, due to
the bit position (Fig. 24).
FIG. 24
ROUTER BIT
-19-
OFFSET
TEMPLET GUIDE
ADAPTER
TEMPLET GUIDE
RELEASE LEVER
TEMPLET GUIDE
(optional accessory)
COLLET CHUCK
TEMPLET
GUIDE
WORKPIECE
FIG. 23
ROUTER
SUB-BASE
TEMPLET
PATTERN
DD
B
A
B
A
B
A
C
C
D
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 20
INSTALLING TEMPLET GUIDE ADAPTER
(Not included, available as accessory)
Place templet guide adapter over the holes in
the center of the sub-base, and align the two
threaded holes in the bottom of adapter with
the countersunk holes in sub-base. Fasten
adapter with the screws provided. Note that
the adapter is reversible, so the release lever
may be positioned as desired. (Fig. 25)
CENTERING THE SUB-BASE OR
TEMPLET GUIDES
Your router features the Bosch “Precision
Centering Design”. Its sub-base is precisely
centered at the factory. This positions the bit at
th e ce nter o f th e sub- base and o ptional
templet guides.
Precision centering allows you to use the edge
of the subbase or templet guides to closely
follow jigs such as straight guides, templets,
and dovetail fixtures without worrying about bit
walk-off from the intended cut line for any
reason, including the orientation of the router’s
handles relative to the jig.
To quickly re-center the sub-base, attach the
sub-base using the set of flathead screws
(included) and the countersunk screw holes in
the sub-base. (Flathead screws have the
FIG. 25
TEMPLET GUIDE
ADAPTER
(optional accessory)
MOUNTING SCREWS
tapered heads.) The flathead screws and
countersunk holes will pull the sub-base into a
position that is very close to centered.
To most precisely re-center the sub-base or
templet guides, attach the sub-base using the
optional Bosch RA1151 Centering Device.
Follow steps 1-8 (Fig. 26 & 27).
1. If a templet guide is to be centered, Install
the templet guide adapter and template
guide (optional attachments) as described
elsewhere in this manual.
2. Position the sub-base so that its pan-head
screw holes are over the matching set of
threaded holes in the base.
3. Insert the pan-head screws through the subbase and tighten them until they are snug,
but still allow the sub-base to move.
CENTERING CONE
(optional accessory)
FIG. 26
PLUNGE BASE
CENTERING SHAFT
(optional accessory)
TEMPLET GUIDE
(optional accessory)
CENTERING SHAFT
(optional accessory)
CENTERING SHAFT
(optional accessory)
FIG. 27
OTHER BASES
A=M4 COUNTERSUNK SCREW
HOLES
B=M4 PAN-HEAD SCREW HOLES
SUB-BASE
-20-
C=TEMPLET GUIDE ADAPTER
SCREW HOLES
D=HOLES FOR ATTACHING
ROUTER TO ROUTER TABLE
MOUNTING PLATE
(Under sub-base on
non-plunge bases)
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 21
4. Prepare the Centering Device:
• Us e na rrow end of steel s haft when
inserting into 1/4” collet, wider end of cone
when inserting into 1/2” collet.
• When centering subbase or templet guide
that has opening of more than ½”, slide
the wide plastic sleeve over the steel
shaft.
5. Slide centering sleeve through the sub-base
or templet guide and into collet. Tighten
MAXIMUM BIT/CUTTER SIZE FOR
TEMPLET GUIDES
When using a templet guide, use only router
bit with cutters that are 1/16” less than the
internal diameter of the templet guide, such as
in the table below.
collet nut with fingers to put slight grip on
centering cone.
6. Lightly press centering sleeve into sub-base
or templet guide to center.
7. Tighten the pan-head screws. Remo ve
centering sleeve.
8. The precision centering of the sub-base or
templet guide is complete.
CENTERING CONE – Used when centering
the subbase itself or wide templet guides.
USE WITH THREADED
TEMPLET GUIDES
Also available as an optional accessory is an
additional adapter, the RA1100, that allows
use of conventional threaded templet guides
with the Bosch quick-release system.
The RA1161 fixed base is designed to allow
easy depth adjustment in a table. The RA1162
"D" D-Handle base will not fit in most router
tables.
CAUTION
!
The RA1166 Plunge Base is
not recommended for use
in a router table. Damage to plunge router
base may occur.
To eliminate the hassle of ins talling your
router’s own base on the router table and later
having to convert it back for non-table use,
Bosch offers the optional RA1165 Undertable
Router Base (Fig. 28). The RA1165 base is
designed to be permanently attached your
router table, leaving your other router bases
ready for non-table use. The motor can be
quickly moved from base to base — without
any tools!
FIG. 28
10-24 Screw
Mounting
Plate
Quick-release
clamp lever
and depth
adjustment
controls should
face the front of the router table
-21-
Hex
Wrench
Hole for Hex
Wrench
Shown after
subbase has
been removed
BM 2610018532 01-12:BM 2610018532 01-12.qxp 1/23/12 9:21 AM Page 22
The undertable base accessory includes the
screws needed to fasten the base to a router
table m oun ting plate, as well as a T-hex
wrench for above-table depth adjustment.
ATTACHING BASE TO
MOUNTING PLATE
At tach t he RA116 1 to the ro uter t ab le’s
mounting plate using either or both sets of
enclosed mounting screws.
The base has two sets of threaded holes for
mounting the base:
• Three 10-24 holes in industry-standard
3-hole pattern.
• Four M4 holes in Bosch 4-hole pattern.
Mounting screws required for the RA1161:
(not included with all models).
• Three 10-24 screws.
• Four M4 screws.
The length will depend on the thickness of
your router table or router table mounting
plate.
If your router table mounting plate does not
have countersunk holes in either of those
patterns, you will need to determine the hole
locations, drill and countersink them, also
locate an d dr ill a hole for the over -table
adjustment wrench.
CONNECT THE ROUTER AND THE
ROUTER TABLE SWITCH
To prepare for use of the switch,
1. Make sure the router switch and the router
table switch are both turned off.
2. Plug the router table switch cord to wall
outlet.
3. Plug the router into the "pigtail" socket on
the router table switch.
4. Lock router switch on: squeeze trigger,
depress lock-on button, and release trigger.
5. Use the router table switch to start and stop
the router.
DEPTH ADJUSTMENT (See page 12-13)
FEEDING THE WORKPIECE
ON A ROUTER TABLE
Always use your router table's fence or starter
pin and the appropriate guard and follow the
router table's instruction manual. ALWAYS
feed the workpiece from right to left across the
front of the bit. On Bosch router tables, the
correct feed direction is also shown on fence
housing and on the featherboards, when they
have been properly installed. (Fig. 29)
Whenever possible, when using the fence,
use a push stick to push the workpiece ,
especially when working with narrow pieces.
For complete instructions on operation of a
router in a router table, please refer to the
instructions that come with the router table.
TOP VIEW
NOTE: For clarity, guard and featherboard
removed from drawing.
FIG. 29
DIRECTION
OF FEED
FENCE FACE
BIT
BEARING
FENCE FACE
WORKPIECE
-22-
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