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OPERATOR’S MANUAL
D
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PLUNGE ROUTER
DOUBLE INSULATED
Model No.
315.175170
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury,
the user must read and understand the
operator’s manual before using this product.
Customer Help Line: 1-800-932-3188
Sears, Roebuck and Co., 3333 Beverly Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 USA
Visit the Craftsman web page: www.sears.com/craftsman
983000-497
1-12-07 (REV:04)
Save this manual for future reference
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
�� Warranty .......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
�� Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
�� General Safety Rules .................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
�� Specific Safety Rules ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
�� Symbols ........................................................................................................................................................................5-6
�� Electrical .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
�� Features ........................................................................................................................................................................8-9
���� Assembly ....................................................................................................................................................................... 10
��� Operation .................................................................................................................................................................. 11-21
��� Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................. 22-23
������� Exploded View and Parts List ...................................................................................................................................24-25
Parts Ordering/Service .....................................................................................................................................Back Page
WARRANTY
ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TOOL
If this Craftsman tool fails to give complete satisfaction within one year from date of purchase, RETURN IT TO THE
NEAREST SEARS STORE OR SEARS PARTS & REPAIR CENTER IN THE UNITED STATES, and Sears will repair it,
free of charge.
If this Craftsman tool is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of
purchase.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
INTRODUCTION
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability
have been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING: Read and understand all instructions.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may
result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal
injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WORK AREA
Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and 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 bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to
lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Double insulated tools are equipped with a
polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other).
This plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way.
If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse
the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified
electrician to install a polarized outlet. Do not
change the plug in any way.
eliminates the need for the three-wire grounded power
cord and grounded power supply system.
Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as
pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There is an
increased risk of electric shock if your body is grounded.
Don’t 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 to carry
the tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep cord
away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
Replace damaged cords immediately.
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool outside, use an outdoor
extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”. These cords
are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric
shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do
not use tool while tired or under the influence
of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of
inattention while operating power tools may result in
serious personal injury.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing,
and gloves away from moving parts.
jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
Double insulation
Damaged
Loose clothes,
Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is off before
plugging in. Carrying tools with your finger on the switch
or plugging in tools that have the switch on invites
accidents.
Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning
the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a
rotating part of the tool may result in personal injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. Proper footing and balance enables better
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Dust mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection must be used for appropriate conditions.
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long
hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn
into air vents.
Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
TOOL USE AND CARE
Use clamps or other practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body is unstable and
may lead to loss of control.
Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for your
application. The correct tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it is designed.
Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off.
Any tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
Disconnect the plug from power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories,
or storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
Store idle tools out of the reach of children and
other untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the
hands of untrained users.
Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp
and clean. Properly maintained tools with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to
control.
Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, and any other condition that
may affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have
the tool serviced before using. Many accidents are
caused by poorly maintained tools.
Use only accessories that are recommended by the
manufacturer for your model.
be suitable for one tool, may become hazardous when
used on another tool.
Keep the tool and its handle dry, clean and free
from oil and grease.
cleaning. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleumbased products, or any strong solvents to clean your
tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of loss of
control and deterioration of the enclosure plastic.
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Always use a clean cloth when
Accessories that may
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
SERVICE
Tool service must be performed only by qualified
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed
by unqualified personnel could result in a risk of injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
Bits coast after router has been turned off.
Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when
performing an operation where the cutting tool
may contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact
with a “live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the
cutting tool “live” and shock the operator.
Know your power tool. Read operator’s manual
carefully. Learn its applications and limitations, as
well as the specific potential hazards related to this
tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock, fire, or serious injury.
Always wear safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses
have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of serious personal injury.
Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection
during extended periods of operation. Following this
rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
Inspect tool cords periodically and, if damaged,
have repaired at your nearest Sears or other
qualified service center. Constantly stay aware of
cord location. Following this rule will reduce the risk of
electric shock or fire.
When servicing a tool, use only identical
replacement parts. Follow instructions in the
Maintenance section of this manual. Use of
unauthorized parts or failure to follow Maintenance
Instructions may create a risk of electric shock or
injury.
Check damaged parts. Before further use of the
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should
be carefully checked to determine that it will
operate properly and perform its intended function.
Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and
any other conditions that may affect its operation.
A guard or other part that is damaged should be
properly repaired or replaced by an authorized
service center. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of shock, fire, or serious injury.
Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product
will draw. A wire gauge size (A.W.G.) of at least
14 is recommended for an extension cord 50 feet
or less in length. A cord exceeding 50 feet is not
recommended. If in doubt, use the next heavier
gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier
the cord. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line
voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.
Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before
using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of serious personal injury.
Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently
and use them to instruct others who may use this
tool. If you loan someone this tool, loan them these
instructions also.
WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, 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 chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, 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.
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SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
V Volts
A Amperes
Hz Hertz
W Watt
min Minutes
Alternating Current
Direct Current
n
o
.../min
No Load Speed
Class II Construction
Per Minute
Wet Conditions Alert
Voltage
Current
Frequency (cycles per second)
Power
Time
Type of current
Type or a characteristic of current
Rotational speed, at no load
Double-insulated construction
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Read The Operator’s Manual
Eye Protection
Safety Alert
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
Hot Surface
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand
operator’s manual before using this product.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
and, as necessary, a full face shield when operating this product.
Precautions that involve your safety.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with
any hot surface.
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SYMBOLS
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this
product.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER:
WARNING:
CAUTION:
CAUTION:
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.
(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in
property damage.
SERVICE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge
and should be performed only by a qualified service
technician. For service we suggest you return the
product to your nearest SEARS OR OTHER QUALIFIED
SERVICE CENTER for repair. When servicing, use only
identical replacement parts.
WARNING:
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, do not
attempt to use this product until you read thoroughly
and understand completely the operator’s manual. If
you do not understand the warnings and instructions
in the operator’s manual, do not use this product.
Call Sears customer service for assistance.
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which
can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety
goggles or safety glasses with side shields and, when needed, a full face shield. We recommend
Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields.
Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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ELECTRICAL
DOUBLE INSULATION
Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power
tools, which eliminates the need for the usual three-wire
grounded power cord. All exposed metal parts are
isolated from the internal metal motor components with
protecting insulation. Double insulated tools do not need
to be grounded.
WARNING: The double insulated system is
intended to protect the user from shock resulting
from a break in the tool’s internal insulation. Observe
all normal safety precautions to avoid electrical
shock.
NOTE: Servicing of a tool with double insulation requires
extreme care and knowledge of the system and should
be performed only by a qualified service technician. For
service, we suggest you return the tool to your nearest
Sears or other qualified service center for repair. Always
use original factory replacement parts when servicing.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
This tool has a precision-built electric motor. It should be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, 60 Hz,
AC only (normal household current). Do not operate
this tool on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop
will cause a loss of power and the motor will overheat. If
your tool does not operate when plugged into an outlet,
double-check the power supply.
EXTENSION CORDS
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from
a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has
the capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting
in overheating and loss of power. Use the chart to
determine the minimum wire size required in an extension
cord. Only round jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s
Laboratories (UL) should be used.
When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension
cord that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is
designated with “WA” on the cord’s jacket.
Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation.
**Ampere rating (on tool faceplate)
Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.)
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12
100' 16 16 14 12 10 —
**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
WARNING: Keep the extension cord clear of the
working area. Position the cord so that it will not get
caught on lumber, tools or other obstructions while
you are working with a power tool. Failure to do so
can result in serious personal injury.
WARNING: Check extension cords before each
use. If damaged replace immediately. Never use tool
with a damaged cord since touching the damaged
area could cause electrical shock resulting in serious
injury.
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D
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FEATURES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Plunge Depth ............................................................0-2 in.
Collet ......................................................1/4 in. and 1/2 in.
Adaptor ..................................................................... 1/4 in.
FRONT VIEW OF ROUTER
No Load Speed ...................................15,000-25,000/min.
Input ..............................120 V, 60 Hz, AC only, 10.0 Amps
Net Weight ...............................................................8.5 lbs.
DEPTH STOP
LOCK KNOB
DEPTH
STOP KNOB
VARIABLE
SPEED DIAL
DIGITAL DEPTH
READOUT
SPEED SELECTION
SIGHT WINDOW
PLUNGE
DEPTH KNOB
ON/OFF
SWITCH
HANDLE
STOP BAR
DUST SHIELD
1/4 in. ADAPTOR
SPINDLE LOCK
ADAPTOR
Fig. 1
8
DUST CONTROL
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FEATURES
KNOW YOUR PLUNGE ROUTER
See Figures 1 - 2.
The safe use of this product requires an understanding of
the information on the tool and in this operator’s manual
as well as a knowledge of the project you are attempting.
Before use of this product, familiarize yourself with all
operating features and safety rules.
DEPTH STOP KNOB
The depth stop knob works with the stop bar for accurate
depth of plunge when routing.
DIGITAL DEPTH READOUT
Easily view your depth of cut adjustments using the
digital depth readout which shows changes of depth in
increments of 1/64 in. and 1/10 mm.
DUST CONTROL ADAPTOR
The dust control adaptor attaches to the router base for
dust-free routing.
DUST SHIELD
A clear plastic dust shield is installed on the front of the
router for protection against flying dust and chips. The
shield is designed to fit the opening of the router base.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN
The design of this tool provides easy handling when
operating in different positions and at different angles.
PLUNGE LOCK LEVER
Your router has a plunge lock lever that allows for free
plunging. This feature is very useful for table mounted
operations on UL listed router tables when used with the
plunge depth knob.
SPINDLE LOCK
A spindle lock secures the spindle so that only one
wrench is needed to loosen the collet nut and change
cutters.
VARIABLE SPEED
The variable speed dial allows the router to develop a no
load speed that can be adjusted from 15,000 to 25,000/min.
PLUNGE
LOCK LEVER
REAR VIEW OF ROUTER
DUST CHUTE
COLLET NUT
ROUTER BASE
SUBBASE
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Fig. 2
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ASSEMBLY
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UNPACKING
This product has been shipped completely assembled.
Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the
box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list
are included.
Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
Do not discard the packing material until you have
carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-800-932-3188 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Plunge Router
Dust Control Adaptor
Collet
Plunge Depth Knob Assembly
Screws (3) - for mounting router to a UL listed router table
1/4 in. Adaptor
3V Battery
15/16 in. Wrench
Operator’s Manual
INSTALLING DIGITAL DEPTH READOUT BATTERY
See Figure 3.
Unplug the router.
Remove screw from the battery cover.
� Insert the 3V battery provided with the tool.
� Replace the battery cover and secure with screw.
WARNING: If any parts are damaged or missing
do not operate this tool until the parts are replaced.
Failure to heed this warning could result in serious
personal injury.
WARNING: Do not attempt to modify this tool
or create accessories not recommended for use
with this tool. Any such alteration or modification is
misuse and could result in a hazardous condition
leading to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING: Do not connect to power supply until
assembly is complete. Failure to comply could result
in accidental starting and possible serious injury.
SCREW
BATTERY COVER
BATTERY
Fig. 3
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OPERATION
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WARNING: Do not allow familiarity with tools
to make you careless. Remember that a careless
fraction of a second is sufficient to inflict serious
injury.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operating power
tools. Failure to do so could result in objects being
thrown into your eyes resulting in possible serious
injury.
WARNING: Do not use any attachments or
accessories not recommended by the manufacturer
of this tool. The use of attachments or accessories
not recommended can result in serious personal
injury.
WARNING: Keep a firm grip on router with both
hands at all times. Failure to do so could result in
loss of control leading to possible serious personal
injury.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:
� Routing grooves, shaping edges, freehand designs,
etc., in wood
� Chamfering, rabbeting, dadoing, and dovetailing in
wood
� Routing edges on laminates
� Depress spindle lock.
NOTE: When using the spindle lock button for any
application, make sure the button goes all the way in.
If the button is depressed and does not go all the way
in, turn the collet until the spindle lock button locks into
place.
� Place the wrench provided through front of router base
onto collet nut and turn counterclockwise to loosen.
WARNING: If you are changing a cutter
immediately after use, be careful not to touch the
cutter or collet with your hands or fingers. They will
get burned because of heat buildup from cutting.
Always use the wrench provided.
� Install cutter once collet nut is loose. If changing
cutters, cutter will easily slip from collet after loosening
collet nut.
NOTE: The collet is machined to precision tolerances
to fit cutters with 1/2 in. diameter shanks. To use
cutters with 1/4 in. diameter shanks, insert the 1/4 in.
adaptor into the 1/2 in. collet.
Insert shank (non-cutting end) of cutter until shank
bottoms out, then pull it out 1/16 in. to allow for
expansion when the cutter gets hot.
� Tighten the collet nut securely by turning clockwise
with the wrench.
� Release spindle lock.
� Replace chip shield.
WARNING: Before performing any adjustment,
make sure the tool is unplugged from the power
supply and the switch is in the OFF position. Failure
to heed this warning could result in serious personal
injury.
WARNING: Bit continues to rotate after the router
has been turned off. To avoid injury, wait until the bit
has come to a complete stop before removing router
from the workpiece.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the spindle
or spindle lock, always allow motor to come to a
complete stop before engaging the spindle lock.
CHANGING CUTTERS
See Figures 4 - 5.
Unplug the router.
Remove dust shield from router base.
SPINDLE
LOCK
TO LOOSEN
TO TIGHTEN
COLLET
NUT
Fig. 4
CUTTER
15/16 in. WRENCH
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OPERATION
COLLET NUT
COLLET NUT
COLLET
CUTTER WITH 1/4 in.
SHANK DIAMETER
Fig. 5
1/4 in. ADAPTOR
WARNING: If the collet is not securely tightened,
the cutter may detach during use causing serious
personal injury.
WARNING: Do not use cutters with undersized
shanks. Undersized shanks will not tighten properly
and could be thrown from the tool causing serious
personal injury.
TO ADJUST DEPTH OF CUT
See Figures 6 - 8.
� Unplug the router.
� Raise cutter by unlocking plunge lock lever.
� Adjust hex nuts on threaded post until cutter is inside
router subbase.
� Place router on a flat surface.
�� Lower router until tip of cutter barely touches flat
surface.
Lock plunge lock lever to position cutter at zero depth
of cut.
� Adjust hex nuts until they come in contact with stop
flange. This will provide a position stop at zero depth of
cut.
� Make sure the hex nuts are securely tightened against
each other.
TO LOCK
TO UNLOCK
WARNING: Do not use cutters that are larger in
diameter than the opening in router base. Use of
such cutters will come in contact with the router
base and damage both the cutter and the router
base. This situation could also cause possible loss
of control or create other hazardous conditions that
could cause possible serious personal injury.
SELECTING DEPTH OF CUT
Proper depth of cut depends on several factors: the
horsepower of the router motor, the type of cutter, and
the type of wood. A lightweight, low horsepower router
is designed for making shallow cuts; a router with higher
horsepower is designed for deeper cuts. Small cutters,
such as veining cutters with 1/16 in. cutting diameters,
are designed to remove only small amounts of wood.
Large cutters, such as straight-flute cutters, remove larger
amounts of wood and make deeper cuts in soft woods,
such as white pine.
Choose a depth of cut that will not place excessive strain
on the router motor. If you need extra force or the motor
speed slows down considerably, turn off the router and
reduce the depth of cut. Then make the cut in two or more
passes.
When routing a groove that is too deep to safely cut in
one pass, make the cut in several passes. We recommend
that cuts be made at a depth not exceeding 1/8 in. and
that several passes be made to reach deeper cuts.
PLUNGE
LOCK LEVER
CUTTER
INSIDE SUBBASE
Fig. 6
� Rotate depth stop lock knob counterclockwise to
unlock depth stop knob.
� Rotate depth stop knob until stop bar touches router
base.
� Turn on digital depth readout by pushing on/off/zero
button. Push the mm/in button for desired unit of
measure.
NOTE: Push the backlight button to illuminate the
digital depth readout.
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DEPTH
F
ON/OFF/ZERO
mm/in
mm
OPERATION
DEPTH
DEPTH STOP
LOCK KNOB
DEPTH STOP
KNOB
CUTTER
STOP BAR
TIP OF CUTTER TOUCHING WORKPIECE =
Fig. 7
ZERO DEPTH OF CUT
� Rotate depth stop knob to position stop bar at desired
depth of cut.
� Turn depth stop lock knob clockwise to lock stop bar
in place.
� Position the router so that the cutter can extend below
the subbase for desired depth setting.
� Unlock plunge lock lever.
� Grasp handles and lower router until stop bar contacts
router base.
NOTE: Do not use excessive force to touch stop bar to
router base. Excessive force can damage stop bar.
� Lock plunge lock lever to position cutter at desired
depth of cut.
NOTE: A static shock may cause the digital depth readout
to become blank or display an incorrect reading. If this
occurs, reset the readout to zero and begin procedure
again. Avoid touching metal parts of router to prevent
static shock from occurring.
BACKLIGHT
BUTTON
DIGITAL
DEPTH READOUT
ON/OFF/ZERO
mm/in. BUTTON
Fig. 8
BUTTON
PLUNGE DEPTH KNOB
See Figures 9 - 10.
The weight of the router plus the awkward position it is in
when mounted to a router table make it very difficult to set
depth of cut simply by turning the hex nut with a 15/16 in.
wrench.
It is recommended using the plunge depth knob when
your router is mounted upside down on a UL listed router
table.
The plunge depth knob is spring loaded against the hex
nut to prevent router motor from accidently separating
from router base. If plunge depth knob is turned too
far up plunge depth shaft, the spring will cause the rod
to pop off before hex nut. Do not remove hex nut. It
should remain on plunge depth shaft at all times. This is
especially important when using router upside down on a
router table.
PLUNGE
DEPTH KNOB
STOP
FLANGE
Fig. 9
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OPERATION
TO INSTALL PLUNGE DEPTH KNOB
� Unplug the router.
� Remove upper hex nut from plunge depth shaft.
NOTE: This is the only time you should remove the
hex nut from the router. Also, if you remove the plunge
depth knob for any reason, you must reinstall the hex
nut before reusing the router.
� Turn remaining hex nut counterclockwise until 1/4 in.
of thread is remaining at the top of the plunge depth
shaft.
� Place compression spring on top of hex nut.
� Place plunge depth knob on top of compression spring
and align tabs on knob with flats on hex nut.
� Compress spring by carefully pushing down on top of
plunge depth knob.
� Thread plunge depth knob clockwise onto plunge
depth shaft.
WARNING: Replacing plunge depth knob without
compression spring could result in plunge depth
knob and hex nut vibrating off plunge depth shaft.
This situation could cause motor to separate from
router base, resulting in possible serious personal
injury.
PLUNGE DEPTH KNOB
TO ADJUST DEPTH OF CUT USING PLUNGE
DEPTH KNOB
� Unplug the router.
� Rotate depth stop lock knob counterclockwise to
unlock depth stop knob.
� Rotate depth stop knob to raise stop bar.
� Unlock plunge lock lever and raise cutter to its
uppermost position.
� Plunge router until cutter reaches the approximate
desired depth of cut.
� Lock plunge lock lever, temporarily locking cutter at
desired depth of cut.
� Turn plunge depth knob clockwise until hex nut sits
against stop flange. Do not overtighten.
�
Unlock plunge lock lever. Always unlock plunge lock
lever before setting depth of cut with plunge depth knob.
� Turn plunge depth knob until cutter reaches desired
depth of cut.
� Lock plunge lever. Always lock cutter in place before
routing.
� Rotate depth stop lock knob counterclockwise to
unlock depth stop knob.
� Rotate depth stop knob until stop bar touches router
base.
� Tighten depth stop lock knob securely.
COMPRESSION
SPRING
HEX NUT
STOP FLANGE
PLUNGE
DEPTH SHAFT
PLUNGE LOCK LEVER
Fig. 10
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OPERATION
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VARIABLE SPEED DIAL
See Figure 11.
The router has a variable speed dial designed to allow
operator control of speed and torque limits. You can
make speed selections best suited to the type of cut, the
material being cut, and the size of cutter being used. The
variable speed dial allows you to adjust router speed from
15,000 to 25,000/min. There is a six-step scale (A to F) on
the variable speed dial. To increase the speed and torque
of the router, turn the variable speed dial to a higher
setting (F). Turn to a lower setting to decrease speed and
torque (A).
NOTE: If you do not want to use the variable speed dial,
turn it to the highest possible setting, and the feature will
not be active.
The speed selection chart shown gives suggested speed
settings based on the diameter of the cutter and the type
of material being routed.
We suggest that you practice with the variable speed
feature of the router before installing a cutter and making
cuts in wood.
SPEED SELECTION CHART
MATERIAL
SOFT
MEDIUM
HARD
VERY HARD
CUTTER SIZE
1/4
3/8 1/2
3/4
E-F D-E A-B A
D-E
C-D
D-E
C-D A
B-C
C-D
C-D
B-C
A
AA
SPEED SELECTION
SIGHT WINDOW
TO
DECREASE
SPEED
VARIABLE SPEED
DIAL
Fig. 11
TO
INCREASE
SPEED
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OPERATION
TURNING THE ROUTER ON/OFF
See Figure 12.
To turn router ON, push switch to the ON ( I ) position. To
turn router OFF, push switch to the OFF ( O ) position.
CAUTION: Practice with the router before installing
a cutter and making cuts in wood.
ON ( I )
ON/OFF SWITCH
OFF ( O )
USING DUST CONTROL ADAPTOR
See Figure 13.
The dust control adaptor is used with the dust chute and a
vacuum hose for dust-free routing.
To install the dust control adaptor:
Remove the dust shield and dust chute.
� Locate the two screw holes in the adaptor. One screw
hole will have a pin hole next to it.
� Align the screw hole and pin hole of the adaptor with
the screw hole and pin on the router base. Push into
place.
� Insert screws provided into each hole and screw into
place.
Replace dust shield and dust chute.
For dust-free routing, attach a vacuum hose to dust chute.
Turn vacuum on and begin routing operation.
PIN
Fig. 12
SCREW(S)
SCREW
HOLE(S)
BOTTOM VIEW
SCREW
HOLE(S)
DUST CONTROL
ADAPTOR
PIN HOLE
Fig. 13
16
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OPERATION
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WARNING: Cutter continues to rotate after the
router has been turned off. To avoid injury, wait until
the cutter has come to a complete stop before removing router from the workpiece.
OPERATING THE ROUTER
See Figures 14 - 16.
When routing straight cuts across stock, clamp a straight
edge to the workpiece to use as a guide. Position the
straight edge parallel to the line of cut and offset the
distance between the cutting edge of the cutter and the
edge of the router base. Hold the router base against the
straight edge and rout the groove.
When routing a groove wider than the diameter of the cutter, clamp a straight edge on both sides of the cut lines.
Position both guides parallel to the desired line of cut and
spaced equal distances from the desired edges of the
groove. Rout along one guide, then reverse direction and
rout along the other guide. Clean out any remaining waste
in the center of the groove.
EDGE ROUTING
P���lace the router on the edge of the workpiece without
the cutter contacting the workpiece.
�Turn router on and let the motor build to full speed.
�Gradually feed the cutter into the workpiece.
�Upon completion of the cut, turn the router off and let
the cutter come to a complete stop before removing
the router from the workpiece.
CLAMP
STRAIGHT
EDGE
WORKPIECE
Fig. 15
CUTTER EXTENDED BELOW SUBBASE
Fig. 14
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OPERATION
INTERNAL ROUTING
Tilt router and place on workpiece without the cutter
contacting the workpiece.
�Turn the router on and let the motor build up to full
speed.
�Gradually feed cutter into the workpiece until the sub-
base is level with the workpiece.
�Upon completion of the cut, turn the router off and let
the cutter come to a complete stop before removing
the router from the workpiece.
WARNING: Do not use large router cutter for
freehand routing. Use of large router cutters when
freehand routing could cause loss of control or create other hazardous conditions that could result in
personal injury. If using a router table, large cutters
should be used for edging only. Do not use cutters
that are larger in diameter than the opening in the
router subbase.
EDGING WITH PILOT CUTTERS
See Figure 17.
The arbor-type cutters with pilots are excellent for quick,
easy, edge shaping of any workpiece edge that is either
straight or curved at a curvature as great or greater than
the radius of the cutter to be used. The pilot prevents the
cutter from making too deep a cut; and holding the pilot
firmly in contact with the workpiece edge throughout prevents the cut from becoming too shallow.
Whenever the workpiece thickness together with the
desired depth of cut (as adjusted by router depth setting)
are such that only the top part of the edge is to be shaped
(leaving at least a 1/16 inch thick uncut portion at bottom),
the pilot can ride against the uncut portion, which will
serve to guide it. However, if the workpiece is too thin or
the cutter set too low so that there will be no uncut edge
to ride the pilot against, an extra board to act as a guide
must be placed under the workpiece. This “guide” board
must have exactly the same contour—straight or curved—
as the workpiece edge. If it is positioned so that its edge
is flush with the workpiece edge, the cutter will make a
full cut (in as far as the cutter radius). On the other hand, if
the guide is positioned out from the workpiece edge, the
cutter will make less than a full cut—which will alter the
shape of the finished edge.
NOTE: Any of the piloted cutters can be used without a
pilot for edge shaping with guides, as preceding. The size
(diameter) of the pilot that is used determines the maximum cut width that can be made with the pilot against the
workpiece edge (the small pilot exposes all of the cutter;
the large one reduces this amount by 1/16 in.).
Fig. 16
18
PILOT
WORK
TOP EDGE SHAPING
ROUTER
WHOLE EDGE SHAPING
ROUTER
PILOT
GUIDE
WORK
Fig. 17
Page 19
OPERATION
DIRECTION OF FEED AND THRUST
See Figures 18 - 19.
The router motor and cutter revolve in a clockwise direction. This gives the tool a slight tendency to twist in a
counterclockwise direction, especially when the motor
revs up.
Feed the router into the workpiece from left to right. When
fed from left to right, the rotation of the cutter pulls the
router against the workpiece. If fed in the opposite direc
tion, the rotation of the spinning cutter will tend to throw
the router away from the workpiece causing kickback.
This could cause you to lose control of the router.
Because of the high speed of cutter rotation during a
proper feeding operation, there is very little kickback
under normal conditions. However, if the cutter strikes a
knot, hard grain, or foreign object that affects the normal
progress of the cutting action, there will be a slight kickback. The direction of kickback is always in the direction
opposite cutter rotation. This will affect the trueness of
your cut.
To guard against kickback, plan your setup and direc
tion of feed so that you will always be thrusting the tool in
the same direction that the leading edge of the cutter is
moving. The thrust should be in a direction that keeps the
sharp edges of the cutter continuously biting straight into
new (uncut) wood.
NOTE: For best results, make sure to take enough time to
set up for cutting. While cutting, make sure to use the proper
rate of feed.
-
-
When routing a groove, your travel should be in a direction that places the guide you are using at the right-hand
side. When the guide is positioned as shown in the “guide
inside” illustration, tool travel should be from left to right
and counterclockwise around curves. When the guide
is positioned as shown in the “guide outside” illustration, tool travel should be from right to left and clockwise
around curves. If there is a choice, the first setup is generally the easier to use. In either case, the sideways thrust
you use is against the guide.
GUIDE INSIDE
ROTATION
GUIDE
ROTATION
FEED
GUIDE OUTSIDE
ROTATION
THRUST
ROTATION
THRUST
6
3
PROPER
4
CUTTING
5
FEED
GUIDE
Fig. 19
2
SEQUENCE
1
8
7
Fig. 18
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OPERATION
PROPER RATE OF FEED
Professional routing depends upon careful setup and
proper rate of feed which is learned through practice and
use. The proper rate of feed is dependent upon:
hardness and moisture content of the workpiece
depth of cut
cutting diameter of the cutter
When cutting shallow grooves in soft woods such as pine,
a faster rate of feed can be used. When making cuts in
hardwoods such as oak, a slower rate of feed is required.
Several factors will help you select the proper rate of feed.
Choose the rate that does not slow down the motor.
�Choose the rate at which the cutter advances firmly
and surely to produce a continuous spiral of uniform
chips or a smooth edge.
Listen to the sound of the motor. A high-pitched sound
means you are feeding too slowly. A strained, lower
pitched sound signals force feeding.
�Check the progress of each cut. Too slow feeding can
cause the router to take off in a wrong direction from
the intended line of cut. Force feeding increases the
strain of holding the tool and results in loss of speed.
Notice the chips being produced as you cut. If the
router is fed too slowly, it will scorch or burn the wood.
If fed too fast, it will take large chips out of the wood
and leave gouge marks.
Test a cut on a scrap piece of the workpiece before you
begin. Always grasp and hold the router firmly with both
hands.
If you are making a small diameter, shallow groove in soft,
dry wood, the proper feed rate may be determined by the
speed at which you can travel the router along the guide
line. If the cutter is a large one, the cut is deep, or the
workpiece is hard to cut, the proper feed may be a very
slow one. A cross grain cut may require a slower pace
than an identical with grain cut in the same workpiece.
FEEDING TOO FAST
See Figure 20.
Clean, smooth routing and edge shaping can be done
only when the cutter is revolving at a relatively high speed
and is taking very small bites to produce tiny, cleanly
severed chips. If you force the router to move forward too
fast, the RPM of the cutter becomes slower than normal
in relation to its forward movement. As a result, the cutter
must take bigger bites as it revolves. Bigger bites mean
bigger chips and a rougher finish. Also, because bigger
bites require more power, the router motor may become
overloaded.
Under extreme force-feeding conditions, the relative
RPM of the cutter can become so slow—and the bites it
has to take so large—that chips will be partially knocked
off (rather than fully cut off). This causes splintering and
gouging of the workpiece.
The router is an extremely high-speed tool, and will make
clean, smooth cuts if allowed to run freely without the
overload of a forced feed. You can always detect force
feeding by the sound of the motor. Its high-pitched whine
will sound lower and stronger as it loses speed. Also, the
strain of holding the tool will be noticeably increased.
TOO FAST
Fig. 20
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OPERATION
FEEDING TOO SLOWLY
See Figure 21.
It is possible to spoil a cut by moving the router forward
too slowly. When you advance the router into the work too
slowly, the revolving cutter does not dig into new wood
fast enough to take a bite; instead, it merely scrapes away
sawdust-like particles. Scraping produces heat, which
can glaze, burn, or mar the cut and in extreme cases, can
overheat the cutter, destroying its hardness.
When the cutter is scraping instead of cutting, controlling
the router is more difficult. With practically no load on the
motor, the cutter revolves at close to top RPM, and has
a much greater than normal tendency to bounce off the
sides of the cut (especially if the wood has a pronounced
grain with hard and soft areas). As a result, the cut pro
duced may have rippled, instead of straight, sides.
Feeding too slowly can also cause the router to take off in a
wrong direction from the intended line of cut. Always grasp
and hold the router firmly with both hands when routing.
You can detect when you are feeding the router too slowly by
the runaway, high-pitched sound of the motor or by feeling
the wiggle of the cutter in the cut.
-
DEPTH OF CUT
See Figures 22 - 23.
Depth of cut is important because it affects the rate of
feed that, in turn, affects the quality of the cut and the
possibility of damage to the tool’s motor and cutter.
DEPTH
OF CUT
WIDTH OF CUT
Fig. 22
A deep cut requires a slower feed than a shallow one. A
cut that is too deep will slow the feed so that the cutter
is scraping rather than cutting. A too deep cut can cause
smaller cutters to be broken off. Cutters that are 1/16 in.
in diameter are easily broken off when subjected to too
much side thrust. A large enough cutter is not likely to
break, but attempting a cut that is too deep may result
in a rough cut, and it may be difficult to guide and control the cutter as desired. It is recommended that you do
not exceed 1/8 in. depth of cut in a single pass, regardless of the cutter size or the softness or condition of the
workpiece.
2ND
PASS
1ST
PASS
2ND
PASS
1ST
PASS
TOO SLOW
Fig. 21
Fig. 23
To make deeper cuts, make as many successive passes
as needed, lowering the cutter 1/8 in. for each new pass.
To save time, perform all the cutting necessary at one
depth setting before lowering the cutter for the next pass.
This will insure a uniform depth when you complete the
final pass.
NOTE: Do not remove more than 1/8 in. in a single pass.
Excessive depth of cut can result in loss of control and the
possibility of serious personal injury.
21
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MAINTENANCE
WARNING: When servicing, use only identical
Craftsman replacement parts. Use of any other parts
may create a hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields during power tool operation
or when blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also wear
a dust mask.
WARNING: Before performing any adjustment,
make sure the tool is unplugged from the power
supply and the switch is in the OFF ( O ) position.
Failure to heed this warning could result in serious
personal injury.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use.
Use clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING: Do not at any time let brake fluids,
gasoline, petroleum-based products, penetrating
oils, etc., come in contact with plastic parts.
Chemicals can damage, weaken or destroy plastic
which may result in serious personal injury.
Electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard,
spackling compounds, or plaster are subject to
accelerated wear and possible premature failure because
the fiberglass chips and grindings are highly abrasive to
bearings, brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, we
do not recommended using this tool for extended work on
these types of materials. However, if you do work with any
of these materials, it is extremely important to clean the
tool using compressed air.
LUBRICATION
All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient
amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the unit under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrica-
tion is required.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be
repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should
be replaced at a Sears Service Center.
CUTTERS
Get faster and more accurate cutting results by keeping
cutters clean and sharp. Remove all accumulated pitch and
gum from cutters after each use.
When sharpening cutters, sharpen only the inside of the
cutting edge. Never grind the outside diameter. Be sure
when sharpening the end of a cutter to grind the clearance
angle to the same angle as originally ground.
COLLET
Dust and chips may collect on the collet from time to time,
making it necessary to clean the collet. To do so, remove
the collet assembly and wipe it with a clean dry rag. Clean
the taper in the shaft in the same manner. Never immerse
the collet or end of the shaft in a solvent or in water. Before
replacing the collet assembly, put a drop of SAE30 motor
oil on the inside of the nut, on the threads of the shaft, and
on the taper in the shaft. Replace the collet assembly onto
the shaft by hand only. Never tighten the collet nut without
a cutter in the collet. This action could permanently damage
the collet.
BRUSH ASSEMBLIES
See Figure 24.
The router has externally accessible brush assemblies that
should periodically be checked for wear.
To replace brush assemblies:
Unplug the router.
Remove brush cap with a screwdriver. Brush assembly
is spring loaded and will pop out when you remove
brush cap.
� Remove brush assembly (brush and spring).
� Check for wear. If worn, always replace in pairs. Do not
replace one side without replacing the other.
� Reassemble using new brush assemblies. Make sure
curvature of brush matches curvature of motor and that
brush moves freely in brush tube.
� Make sure brush cap is oriented correctly (straight) and
replace.
� Tighten brush cap securely. Do not over tighten.
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MAINTENANCE
BRUSH
CAP
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY
BRUSH
CAP
Fig. 24
PLUNGE LOCK LEVER
See Figures 25 - 27.
After extended use, the plunge lock may wear. If this
happens, you can easily adjust the lever.
To adjust plunge lock lever:
� Unplug the router.
� Make sure lever is in locked position.
� Remove the screw supporting the plunge lock lever.
� Remove the lever.
� Place the lever back in the original locked position.
� Replace the screw.
� Check for free plunge with lever rotated to unlocked
position. If router does not plunge freely, reposition
lever.
SCREW
PLUNGE LOCK LEVER SHOWN
IN ORIGINAL LOCKED POSITION
PLUNGE
LOCK LEVER
Fig. 26
Fig. 27
PLUNGE LOCK LEVER SHOWN
AFTER EXTENDED WEAR
Fig. 25
23
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F
1
5
1
6
D
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CRAFTSMAN PLUNGE ROUTER MODEL NO. 315.175170
SEE NOTE
9
10
28
11
12
28
8
10
9
24
14
25
5
7
6
15
16
13
4
3
17
12
2
1
27
18
19
22
21
26
NOTE: The assembly shown represents an important part of the double insulated system. To avoid the
possibility of alteration or damage to the system, service should be performed by your nearest Sears
repair center. Contact your nearest Sears retail store for service center information.
23
20
24
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CRAFTSMAN PLUNGE ROUTER MODEL NO. 315.175170
The model number will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing. Always mention the model
number in all correspondence regarding your ROUTER or when ordering repair parts.
SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS
PARTS LIST
Key Part
No. Number Description Qty.
1 660325001 * Screw (#8-24 x 7/16 in.) ..................................................................................2
2 630005001 Cover Plate ......................................................................................................1
3 670342001 Shaft Lock Pin .................................................................................................
4 690141001 Spring ..............................................................................................................1
5 690002002 Washer ............................................................................................................1
6 513640001 Battery Cover ..................................................................................................1
7 660221005 * Screw ..............................................................................................................1
8 940114137 Logo Label ......................................................................................................
9 550853001 Brush Cap .......................................................................................................2
10 200233002 Brush Set Assembly ........................................................................................1
11 940115119 Data Label .......................................................................................................
12 660163002 Hex Nut ...........................................................................................................3
13 670341001 Plunge Depth Shaft .........................................................................................
14 660284003 * Screw (#6-32 x 1/4 in.) ....................................................................................1
15 550849002 Plunge Lock Lever ...........................................................................................1
16 660427001 Screw (M8 x 1.25) ............................................................................................
17 512817001 Dust Chute ......................................................................................................1
18 670345001 1/2 in. Collet ....................................................................................................1
19 670344002 1/4 in. Collet Adaptor ......................................................................................1
20 512816001 Subbase ..........................................................................................................1
21 660136001 * Screw (#10-32 x 1/4 in.) ..................................................................................
22 551014001 Dust Shield ......................................................................................................1
23 514017001 Dust Control Adaptor ......................................................................................
24 300617010 Plunge Depth Knob Assembly ........................................................................1
25 971137001 Spring ..............................................................................................................1
26 670346001 15/16 in. Wrench .............................................................................................
27 750288001 3V Battery ........................................................................................................1
28 671295001 Brush Tube ......................................................................................................
29 622183054 * Screw (5/16-18 x 1 in. - Not Shown) ...............................................................3
983000497 Operator’s Manual (Not Shown)
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
2
* Standard Hardware Item – May Be Purchased Locally
25
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