Craftsman 315.275000 User Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN

ROUTER

Double Insulated

Model No.

315.275000

Save this manual for
future reference

^ CAUTION: Read and

follow all Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions before
first use of this product.

Sears. Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 USA

972000-416

9-00

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table Of Contents............................................................................................................................................2

Warranty.......................................................................................................................................................... 2

Introduction......................................................................................................................................................2

Rules for Safe Operation..............................................................................................................................3.4

Product Specifications.....................................................................................................................................5

Unpacking.........................................................................................................................................................................5

Accessories.....................................................................................................................................................5

Features...........................................................................................................................................................

Adjustments..................................................................................................................................................7.9

Operation..................................................................................................................................................10-14

Maintenance.............................................................................................................................................15-16

Exploded View and Repair Parts List.......................................................................................................18-19

Parts Ordering / Service................................................................................................................................20

WARRANTY

FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ROUTER

If this CRRFTSMRN Router fails to give complete satisfaction within one year from the date of purchase,
RETURN IT TO THE NEAREST SEARS STORE IN THE UNITED STATES, and Sears will repair it, free of

charge.

If this CRHFTSMRN Router 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

Your router has many features for making routing
operations more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety,
performance and dependability have been given top
priority in the design of this router making it easy to
maintain and operate.

^ Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means attention!!! Your

safety is involved.

^ WARNING:

mssssm

F(^S*FEJY ^6U^S'^

The operation of any router 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 a full face shield when needed. We
recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses
with side shields, available at Sears Retail Stores.

CAUTION: Carefully read through this entire
owner's manual before using your new router.
Pay close attention to the Rules for Safe
Operation, Warnings and Cautions. If you use
your router properly and only for what it is
intended, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable
service.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and
the explanations with them, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do

not by themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for
proper accident prevention measures.

SYMBOL MEANING

SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL:

Indicates caution or warning. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

DANGER: Failure to obey a safety warning will result in serious injury to yourself or to others.

Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

WARNING: Failure to obey a safety warning can result in serious injury to yourself or to others.
Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

CAUTION; Failure to obey a safety warning may result in property damage or personal injury to
yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock
and personal injury.

NOTE:

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 internal metal motor
components with protecting insulation. Double
insulated tools do not need to be grounded.

^ WARNING: Do not attempt to operate this tool

until you have read thoroughly and understand
completely all instructions, safety rules, etc.
contained in this manual. Failure to comply can
result in accidents involving fire, electric shock,
or serious personal injury. Save owner's manual
and review frequently for continuing safe
operation, and instructing others who may use
this tool.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

■ KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read owner's

manual carefully. Learn its applications and
limitations as well as the specific potential hazards
related to this tool.

■ GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK by
preventing body contact with grounded surfaces.

For example; pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerator

enclosures.

■ KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in working order.

■ KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered areas and

benches invite accidents.

■ AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENT. Do
not use power tools in damp or wet locations or

expose to rain. Keep work area well lit.

■ KEEP CHILDREN AND VISITORS AWAY. All

visitors should wear safety glasses and be kept a

safe distance from work area. Do not let visitors

Advises yeu of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

IMPORTANT

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 Store for repair. Always use
original factory replacement parts when servicing.

contact too! or extension cord.

■ STORE IDLE TOOLS. When not in use, tools
should be stored in a dry and high or locked-up

place " out of the reach of children.

■ DO NOT FORCE TOOL. It will do the job better
and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

■ USE RIGHT TOOL. Don't force small tool or

attachment to do the job of a heavy duty tool.
Don't use tool for purpose not intended — for
example — don't use a circular saw for cutting tree
limbs or logs.

■ WEAR PROPER APPAREL. Do not wear loose

clothing or jewelry that can get caught in toot's

moving parts and cause personal injury. Rubber
gloves and nonskid footwear are recommended
when working outdoors. Wear protective hair
covering to contain long hair and keep it from
being drawn into nearby air vents.

■ ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES. Everyday
eyeglasses have only impact-resistant lenses:

they are not safety glasses.

■ PROTECT YOUR LUNGS. Wear a face or dust
mask if the operation is dusty.

■ PROTECT YOUR HEARING. Wear hearing
protection during extended periods of operation.

■ DO NOT ABUSE CORD. Never carry tool by cord
or yank it to disconnect from receptacle. Keep
cord from heat, oil, and sharp edges.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION (Continued)

■ SECURE WORK. Use clamps or a vise to hold
work. It is safer than using your hand and it frees
both hands to operate tool,

■ DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and

balance at all times. Do not use on a ladder or
unstable support. Secure tools when working at

eievated positions.

■ MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep toois

sharp and clean for best and safest performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing

accessories.

■ DISCONNECT TOOLS. When not in use, before

servicing, or when changing attachments, tools
should be disconnected from power supply.

■ REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES.

Form habit of checking to see that keys and
adjusting wrenches are removed from tool before
turning it on.

■ AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Do not carry
plugged-in tool with finger on switch. Be sure

switch is off when plugging in.

■ 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 y^ur product will draw. An undersized
cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in

loss of power and overheating. A wire gage size
(A.W.G.) of at least 14 is recommended for an
extension cord 50 feet or less in length. A cord
exceeding 100 feet is not recommended. If in

doubt, use the next heavier gage. The smaller the

gage number, the heavier the cord.

■ OUTDOOR USE EXTENSION CORDS. When
tool is used outdoors, use only extension cords

suitable for use outdoors. Outdoor approved
cords are marked with the suffix W-A, for
example - SJTW-A or SJOW-A.

■ KEEP CUTTERS CLEAN AND SHARP. Sharp

cutters minimize stalling and kickback.

■ KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM ROUTING AREA.
Keep hands away from cutters. Do not reach

underneath work while cutter is rotating. Do not
attempt to remove material while cutter is rotating.

■ NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE

ATMOSPHERE. Normal sparking of the motor

could ignite fumes.

■ INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY and if

damaged, have repaired at your nearest Sears

Repair Center. Stay constantly aware of cord
location.

■ INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS

PERIODICALLY and replace if damaged.

■ KEEP HANDLES DRY, CLEAN, AND FREE

FROM OIL AND GREASE. Always use a clean

cloth when cleaning. Never use brake fluids,
gasoline, petroleum-based products, or any

strong solvents to clean your tool.

■ STAY ALERT AND EXERCISE CONTROL.

Watch what you are doing and use common
sense. Do not operate tool when you are tired. Do
not rush.

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 dam
aged should be properly repaired or replaced by
an authorized service center.

DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT
TURN IT ON AND OFF. Have defective switches

replaced by an authorized service center.

INSPECT FOR and remove all nails from lumber
before routing.

DO NOT operate this tool while under the influ

ence of drugs, alcohol, or any medication.

POLARIZED PLUGS. To reduce the risk of
electric shock, this tool has 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 the
proper outlet. Do not change the plug in any way.

WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL
CRAFTSMAN REPLACEMENT PARTS.

WHEN USING THIS ROUTER WITH A ROUTER
TABLE, HELP PREVENT POSSIBLE SERIOUS

INJURY BY KEEPING THE CUTTER GUARDED

AT ALL TIMES. Use only router tables, with

guards, that have been designed for use on

routers that are of this type, size, and weight.

DO NOT USE TOOL UNDER "BROWNOUT" OR
OTHER LOW VOLTAGE CONDITIONS. Also, do

not use with any device that could cause the
power supply voltage to change,

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 chemically­treated 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.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Depth of cut
Collet
Also included with packaging

Horsepower

0-1-1/2 in.

1/2 in.

1/4 in.

UNPACKING

Your router has been shipped completely assembled.
Inspect it carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage has occurred during shipping. If any parts are
damaged or missing, contact your nearest Sears
Retail Store to obtain replacement parts before
attempting to operate router. A 1/4 in. collet assembly,
7/8 in. wrench, and Owner's Manual are included in
the box.

ACCESSORIES

THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ARE

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE AT SEARS RETAIL STORES.

Rating
Amperes
No load speed

2

Net weight

120 volts, 60 Hz, AC only

9

25,000 RPM

7.8 lbs.

WARNING: If any parts are missing, do not
operate this tool until the missing parts are
replaced. Failure to do so could result in possible
serious personal injury.

COMBI
NATION

PANEL

CUHER

VEINING

BIT

I

Template Guide Bushing

CORE BOX

BIT

V-GROOVE

CHAMFER

A WARNING: The use of attachments or accessories not listed above might be hazardous.

STRAIGHT COMB-

FACE INATION

BIT STRAIGHT, BIT BITS 45°

BEVEL CHAMFER

CUHER

HINGE

MORTISING

1

Í

LJ

*25895 FOR CARBIDE TIPPED EDGE FORMING BITS

2589 FOR HIGH SPEED STEEL EDGE FORMING BITS

i)

DOVETAILRABBET

CUHER BIT ROMAN 0 BIT,

OGEE, COVE

CD

111

1 *CARBIDE TIPPED BITS |

A

QUARTER-

BIT

CD

BEAD

ROUND

BITS

ARBOR

2589

WITH 2

BALL

BEARINGS

(1/2 IN. &

5/8 IN.)

*25895

FEATURES

KNOW YOUR ROUTER

See Figure 1.

Before attempting to use any tool, familiarize yourself

with all operating features and safety requirements.

CHIP SHIELD

See Figure 1.

A clear plastic chip shield is installed on the front of

your router for protection against flying dust and
chips. The shield is designed to fit the front opening of

the router base. If necessary to remove chip shield,

squeeze the tabs on each end and pull outward. To

replace, squeeze the tabs at each end, fit into

opening, then release. For your protection, do not

use router without chip shield properly in place.

^ WARNING: If any parts are missing, do not operate your router until the missing parts are replaced. Failure

to do so could result in possible serious personal injury

LOCK-ON BUTTON

See Figure 1.

The switch of your router is equipped with a lock-on
feature which is convenient when operating for
extended periods of time. To lock on, depress the
trigger, push in the lock button located on the side of
the handle, then while holding the lock button pushed
in, release the trigger. To release the lock, depress
the trigger and release,

ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

Your router 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 router does not
operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check

the power supply.

SPINDLE LOCK

INDICATOR

POINT(S)

HANDLE

DEPTH

INDICATOR

RING(S)

CHIP SHIELD

UPSIDE DOWN VIEW OF ROUTER

DEPTH INDICATOR

RING(S)

ADJUSTING

DEPTH

RING

INDICATOR

POINT(S)

SWITCH

TRIGGER

CLAMPING

LEVER

SUBBASE WITH

STRAIGHT EDGE

FRONT VIEW OF ROUTER

WARNING: Donotallowfamiliahty with your router to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction
of a second is sufficient to inflict severe injury.

REAR VIEW OF ROUTER

Fig. 1

ADJUSTMENTS

A WARNING: Your router should never be

connected to power supply when you are
assembling parts, making adjustments,
installing or removing cutters, cleaning,

or when not in use. Disconnecting router
will prevent accidental starting that could
cause serious personal injury.

INSTALLING/REMOVING CUTTERS

See Figures 2, 3 and 4.

■ Unplug your router.
A WARNING: Failure to unplug your router

could result in accidental starting causing
serious injury.

WARNING: To prevent damage to the spindle or
spindle lock, always allow motor to come to a
complete stop before engaging spindle lock.

■ A spindle lock is located on the top of the end cap.

See Figure 2. To activate lock, (1) push spindle
lock in, (2) slide into lock position, then (3) release

spindle lock.

SPINDLE LOCK

WRENCH CUTTER

COLLET

NUT

TO LOOSEN

COLLET NUT

Note: Spindle lock is spring loaded and will snap into

position when lock mechanism interlocks.

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 the heat buildup from
cutting. Always use the wrench provided.

■ Remove cutters by turning collet nut counter
clockwise enough to allow cutter to slip easily from
collet. See Figure 3.

TO LOCK

SPINDLE

Place your router upside down on table, then turn
collet nut with wrench until lock mechanism

interlocks. See Figure 3.

TO UNLOCK

SPINDLE

Fig. 2

■ If installing for the first time, it can be installed once

collet nut is loose. If changing cutters, cutter will
easily slip from collet after loosening collet nut.

■ The 1/2 in. collet is machined to precision
tolerances to fit cutters with 1/2 in. diameter

shanks. A 1/4 in. collet assembly has also been
provided with your router so that cutters with 1/4 in.
shank bits can be used. See Figure 4.

ADJUSTMENTS

MOTOR SHAFT

1/2 IN. COLLET

ASSEMBLY

COLLET SCREW (LER HAND THREADS) USING A #2
PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER, TURN SCREW CLOCKWISE
TO LOOSEN AND COUNTERCLOCKWISE TO TIGHTEN

1/2 IN.

COLLET NUT

WARNING: Do not use cutters with undersized

shanks. Undersized shanks will not tighten
properly and could be thrown from tool causing
injury.

L WARNING: Before connecting your router to

power supply, always check to be sure it is not in

lock-on position (depress and release switch
trigger). Failure to do so could result in accidental
starting of your router resulting in possible
serious injury. Also, do not lock the trigger on
jobs where your router may need to be stopped

suddenly.

WARNING: If collet nut is not tightened

securely, cutter may come out during use causing
serious personal injury.

■ Place spindle lock back in unlock position.
Otherwise, interlocking mechanism of spindle lock
will not let you turn your router on. To unlock

spindle, (1) push spindle lock in, (2) slide into

unlock position, then (3) release spindle lock.

See Figure 2.

DEPTH OF CUT ADJUSTMENTS

See Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8.

We recommend that cuts be made at a depth not
exceeding 1/8 in. and that several passes be made to

reach depths of cut greater than 1/8 in.

■ Unplug your router.

A WARNING: Failure to unplug your router

could result in accidental starting causing
serious injury.

■ Place your router on a flat surface, unlock clamping
lever, and turn depth adjusting ring until cutter is
inside subbase. See Figure 5.

REAR VIEW OF ROUTER

To use cutters with 1/4 in. shank bits, the 1/2 in.

collet assembly must be removed and replaced

with the 1/4 in. collet assembly. Remove the 1/2 in.
collet assembly by removing collet nut, loosening
collet screw by turning clockwise securing collet to
motor shaft, then removing collet assembly.

Note: The collet screw has left hand threads
and you will need a #2 phiINps screwdriver to
loosen collet screw. Turn screw clockwise to
loosen and counterclockwise to tighten.

Replace with the 1/4 in. collet assembly, securely
tightening collet screw turning counterclockwise in
collet to motor shaft, then reassemble 1/2 in. collet
nut. See Figure 4.

Insert shank of cutter into collet 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 provided. See Figure 3.

INDICATOR

POINT

DEPTH

ADJUSTING

RING
CUTTER

INSIDE

SUBBASE

DEPTH INDICATOR

RING

SUBBASE

Fig. 5

ADJUSTMENTS

Turn the depth adjusting ring until tip of cutter
touches flat surface (zero depth of cut). See Figure

6. Next turn depth indicator ring until the zero lines
up with the indicator point on front of motor
housing. See Figure 5.

Position your router so that the cutter can extend
below the subbase for desired depth setting. See

Figure 7.

DEPTH OF CUT ADJUSTMENTS WHEN ROUTER IS MOUNTED TO A ROUTER TABLE

See Figure 8.

FOR ROUTER TABLE USE ONLY

DEPTH

INDICATOR

RING

INDICATOR

POINT

The depth of cut is readable from both sides of the

depth adjusting ring. There is a depth indicator ring
and indicator point on both sides of the depth

adjusting ring. The bottom ring is convenient when

using your router mounted to a router table. The
indicator point on the base should also be used when
using your router mounted to a router table,

The depth indicator rings are identical parts.
Therefore, when you have your router mounted

upside down on a router table, you set depth of cut by
reading the scale differently. Set the cutter at zero
depth of cut, rotate depth Indicator ring to desired
depth of cut on the scale, then turn depth adjusting

ring back to zero depth of cut and lock clamping lever

securely.

Fig. 8

CUTTER EXTENDED

BELOW SUB8ASE Fig. 7

Turn the depth adjusting ring to obtain the desired
depth of cut. The distance the cutter moves can be

read on the depth adjusting ring. Each mark on the
depth adjusting ring indicates 1/64 inch change in
depth setting. One indicator point is located on
front of the motor housing, the other one is located

on the base.

Lock clamping lever, securing depth adjusting ring

to motor housing and base.

OPERATION

ROUTING

See Figure 9.

For ease of operation and maintaining proper control,

your router has two handles, one on each side of the

router base. When using your router hold it firmly with
both hands as shown in figure 9.

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 injury.

Turn router on and let motor build to its full speed,
then gradually feed cutter into workpiece. Remain
alert and watch what you are doing. Do not operate

router when fatigued,

RATE OF FEED

IMPORTANT: The whole “secret” of professional

routing and edge shaping lies in making a careful
setup for the cut to be made and in selecting the
proper rate of feed.

PROPER FEEDING

The right feed is neither too fast nor too slow. It is the
rate at which the bit is being advanced firmly and
surely to produce a continuous spiral of uniform chips
— without hogging into the wood to make large

individual chips or, on the other hand, to create only
sawdust. If you are making a small diameter, shallow
groove in soft, dry wood, the proper feed may be

about as fast as you can travel your router along your
guide line. On the other hand, if the bit is a large one,
the cut is deep or the wood 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.

There is no fixed rule. You will learn by experience

from practice and use. The best rate of feed is

determined by listening to the sound of the router

motor and by feeling the progress of each cut. Always

test a cut on a scrap piece of the workpiece wood,

beforehand.

FORCE FEEDING

Clean, smooth routing and edge shaping can be done
only when the bit is revolving at a relatively high
speed and is taking very small bites to produce tiny,
cleanly severed chips. If your router is forced to move
fonfl/ard too fast, the RPM of the bit becomes slower
than normal in relation to its fon/vard movement. As a
result, the bit must take bigger bites as it revolves.
“Bigger bites” mean bigger chips, and a rougher
finish. Bigger chips also require more power, which
could result in the router motor becoming overloaded.

Under extreme force-feeding conditions the relative
RPM of the bit 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), with resulting
splintering and gouging of the workpiece.

See Figure 10.

10

OPERATION

TOO FAST

TOO SLOW

Your router is an extremely high-speed tool {25,000
RPM no-load speed), and will make clean, smooth cuts
if allowed to run freely without the overload of a forced
(too fast) feed. Three things that cause "force feeding”
are bit size, depth-of-cut, and workpiece characteristics.
The larger the bit or the deeper the cut, the more slowly
the router should be moved fon/vard. If the wood is very
hard, knotty, gummy or damp, the operation must be
slowed still more.

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 SLOW FEEDING

It is also possible to spoil a cut by moving the router
forward too slowly. When it is advanced into the work
too slowly, a revolving bit does not dig into new wood
fast enough to take a bite; instead, it simply scrapes

away sawdust-like particles. Scraping produces heat,

which can glaze, burn, or mar the cut — in extreme

cases, can even overheat the bit so as to destroy its

hardness.

Fig, 10

In addition, it is more difficult to control a router when

the bit is scraping instead of cutting. With practically

no load on the motor the bit will be revolving at close
to top RPM, and will have 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 resuit, the cut produced may have

rippled, instead of straight sides. See Figure 10.

“Too-slow feeding” can also cause your router to take

off in a wrong direction from the intended line of cut.

Always grasp and hold your router firmly with

both hands when routing.

You can detect “too-slow feeding” by the runaway

too-highly pitched sound of the motor; or by feeling

the “wiggle” of the bit in the cut.

DEPTH OF CUT

As previously mentioned, the depth of cut is important

because it affects the rate of feed which, in turn,

affects the quality of a cut (and, also, the possibility of

damage to your router motor and bit). A deep cut

requires a slower feed than a shallow one, and a too
deep cut will cause you to slow the feed so much that
the bit is no longer cutting, it is scraping, instead .

Making a deep cut is never advisable. The smaller

bits—especially those only 1/16 inch in diameter —
are easily broken off when subjected to too much side
thrust. A large enough bit may not be broken off, but if
the cut is too deep a rough cut will result — and it may

be very difficult to guide and control the bit as desired.

For these reasons, we recommend that you do not

exceed 1/8 inch depth of cut in a single pass,

regardless of the bit size or the softness or condition

of the workpiece. See Figure 11.

11

OPERATION

To make deeper cuts it is therefore necessary to
make as many successive passes as required,
lowering the bit 1/8 inch for each new pass. In order to
save time, do all the cutting necessary at one depth
setting, before lowering the bit for the next pass. This
will also assure a uniform depth when the final pass is
completed. See Figure 12.

2ND PASS

Fig.12

DIRECTION OF FEED AND THRUST

The router motor Itnd bit revolve in a clockwise direction.
This gives the tool a slight tendency to twist (in your

hands) in a counterclockwise direction, especially when

the motor revs up (as at starting).

Because of the extremely high speed of bit rotation
during a “proper feeding” operation, there is very little

kickback to contend with under normal conditions. How
ever, should the bit strike a knot, hard grain, foreign
object, etc. that would affect the normal progress of the

cutting action, there will be a slight kickback — sufficient
to spoil the trueness of your cut if you are not prepared.

Such a kickback is always in the direction opposite to the

direction of bit rotation.

To guard against such a kickback, plan your setup and

direction of feed so that you will always be thrusting the

tool — to hold it against whatever you áre using to guide

the cut— in the same direction that the leading edge of

the bit is moving. In short, the thrust should be in a

direction that keeps the sharp edges of the bit continu
ously biting straight into new (uncut) wood.

ROUTING

Whenever you are routing a groove, your travel
should be in a direction that places whatever guide
you are using at the right-hand side. In short, when
the guide is positioned as shown in the first part of

Figure 13, tool travel should be left to right and

counterclockwise around curves. When the guide is

positioned as shown in the second part of Figure 13

tool travel should be right to left and clockwise around

curves. If there is a choice, the first setup is generally

the easiest to use. In either case, the sideways thrust

you use is against the guide.

GUIDE OUTSIDE

ROTATION

THRUST

ROTATION

FEED

GUIDE

FEED

Fig. 13

12

OPERATION

STARTING AND ENDING A CUT INTERNAL ROUTING

Tilt router and place on workpiece, letting edge of

subbase contact workpiece first. Be careful not to let
router bit contact workpiece. Turn router on and let
motor build to its full speed. Gradually feed cutter into
workpiece until subbase is level with workpiece.

^ 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 injury.

Upon completion of cut, turn motor off and let it come
to a complete stop before removing router from work
surface.

WARNING: Never pul! router out of work and

place upside down on work surface before the

cutter stops.

EDGING WITH PILOT BITS

See Figure 14.

Arbor-type bits with pilots are excellent for quick,
easy, edge shaping. They will follow workpiece edges
that are either straight or curved. The pilot prevents
the bit 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. See Figure 14.

However, if the workpiece is too thin or the bit 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 bit will

make a full cut (in as far as the bit radius). On the
other hand, if the guide is positioned as shown in

Figure 14 (out from the workpiece edge), the bit wili

make less than a full cut — which will alter the shape
of the finished edge.

PILOT

TOP EDGE SHAPING

GUIDE

WHOLE EDGE SHAPING Fig. U

Note: Any of the piloted bits 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 bit; the large one reduces this amount by

1/16 inch.

EDGE ROUTING

Place router on workpiece, making sure the router bit

does not contact workpiece. Turn router on and let

motor build to its full speed. Begin your cut, gradually

feeding cutter into workpiece.

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 injury.

Upon completion of cut, turn motor off and let it come
to a complete stop before removing router from work
surface.

WARNING: Never pull router out of work and

place upside down on work surface before the
cutter stops.

13

OPERATION

FREEHAND ROUTING

See Figure 15.

When used freehand, your router becomes a flexible

and versatile tool. This flexibility makes it possible to
easily rout signs, relief sculptures, etc.

There are two basic techniques
for freehand routing:

■ Routing letters, grooves, and patterns into wood.

See figure 15.

■ Routing out the background, leaving the letters

or pattern raised above the surface.

When freehand routing, we suggest the following:

B Draw or layout the pattern on workpiece.

■ Choose the appropriate cutter.

Note: A core box or V-groove bit is often used for

routing letters and engraving objects. Straight bits

and ball mills are often used to make relief

carvings. Veining bits are used to carve small,
intricate details.

■ Rout the pattern in two or more passes. Make the
first pass at 25% of the desired depth of cut. This
will provide better control as well as being a guide
for the next pass.

B Do not rout deeper than 1/8 in. per pass or cut.

WARNING: Do not use large router bits for

freehand routing. Use of large router bits when
freehand routing could cause loss of control or
create other hazardous conditions that could
cause possible serious personal injury. When

using a router table, large router bits should be
used for edging only. Do not use router bits that
are larger in diameter than the opening in router
base for any purpose,

ROUTING WITH STRAIGHT EDGE
OF SUBBASE

See Figure 16.

ROUTING WITH STRAIGHT EDGE OF

SUBBASE AGAINST AN EDGE GUIDE Fig. 16

The subbase on your router has a straight edge. It

should be used when placing your router against an
edge guide or fence and routing grooves parallel to
the fence.

WARNING: Do not use with router tables that

A

fail to conform to safe woodworking practices and
offer proper guarding for the cutter. Failure to
comply can result in an accident causing possible
serious injury.

14

MAINTENANCE

Д WARNING: When servicing, use only identical

Craftsman replacement parts. Use of any other
part may create a hazard or cause product
damage.

GENERAL

Only the parts shown on parts list, page 19, are
intended to be repaired or replaced by the customer.
All other parts represent an important part of the
double insulation system and should be serviced only

by a qualified Sears service technician.

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, carbon
dust, etc.

WARNING: Do not at any time let brake fluids,

gasoline, petroleum-based products, penetrating
oils, etc. come in contact with plastic parts. They
contain chemicalsjhat can damage, weaken or
destroy plastic.

It has been found that electric tools are subject to
accelerated wear and possible premature failure when
they are used on fiberglass boats, sports cars,
wallboard, speckling compounds, or plaster. The
chips and grindings from these materiais are highly
abrasive to electric tool parts such as bearings,
brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, it is not
recommended that this tool be used for extended
work on any fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling
compounds, or plaster. During any use on these
materials it is extremely important that the tool is
cleaned frequently by blowing with an air jet.

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 lubrication is required.

EXTENSION CORDS

The use of any extension cord will cause some loss of
power. To keep the loss to a minimum and to prevent
tool overheating, use an extension cord that is heavy
enough to carry the current the tool will draw.

A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at least 14 is
recommended for an extension cord 50 feet or less in
length. When working outdoors, use an extension
cord that is suitable for outdoor use. The cord's jacket
will be marked WA.

A CAUTION: Keep extension cords away from the

cutting area and position the cord so that it will

not get caught on lumber, tools, etc., during

cutting operation.

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.

Extension cords suitable for use with your router are

available at your nearest Sears Retail Store,

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.

15

MAINTENANCE

LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT

See Figure 17.

A

Unplug your router.

^ WARNING: Failure to unplug your router

could result in accidental starting causing
serious injury.

Remove cutter from router. Refer to page 8 to
remove cutter.

Adjust router to maximum height.

Remove screws (A) and subbase (B).

See Figure 17.

Remove screw (C) and work light lens (D).
With bulb (E) pointing toward you, pull bulb from

socket. '

Install new bulb by reversing the above procedure.

Fig. 17

PROPER CARE OF CUTTERS

Get faster 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 the same as originally ground.

PROPER CARE OF COLLET

From time to time, it also becomes necessary to clean

your collet and collet nut. To do so, simply remove

collet nut from collet and clean the dust and chips that
have collected. Then return collet nut to its original
position.

HELPFUL HINTS

/ Always clamp workpiece securely before routing.
/ A safe operator is one who thinks ahead.

/ Always wear eye protection when routing.
/ Make setup adjustments carefully. Then double

check. Measure twice and cut once.

Keep cutters clean and properly sharpened.
/ Don’t let familiarity make you careless.
^7 Study all safety rules and do the job safely.
/ Never place your hands in jeopardy.

y Make certain clamps can’t loosen while in use.
^ Test difficult setups on scrap — Don’t waste lumber.

/ Plan each operation before you begin.
/ Provide for smoother operation by cleaning your

router frequently. Shake router or blow with an air jet

to remove sawdust buildup.

✓ Think safety by thinking ahead.

Reassemble all parts and tighten screws securely.

16

¿l

CRAFTSMAN ROUTER - MODEL NO. 315.275000

4

SEE NOTE"A" PAGE 19

18

CRAFTSMAN ROUTER - MODEL NO. 315.275000

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 No. Part No.

1

2
3
4
5

6

7

8
9

10

11

12

13 610120-005
14
15
16 726676-002
17
18
19
20 970712-002

21 974323-002

22

23
24
25
26
27
28
29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36 974096-001

37

38 974518-001 Wrench..................................................................................................

39

40
41

42

43

44

973689-001

999053-003

973671-001 Actuator Button.............................................................................

989592-002

975778-001 Data Plate...............................................................................................

974289-001 Caution Label..........................................................................................

975779-001 Logo Plate

973688-002 Pointer

612556-003
974098-001
974516-001 Screw (#4-40 x 3/4 in. Pan Hd.)

974239-003 Ring Assembly.......................................................................................

97^811-001

616968-003

623924-007
973669-001 Depth Lock Lever

622347-020 Spring Washer........................................................................................

974908-011
973672-001
975810-001

998895-001 Switch Trigger........................................................................................

973986-100

616445-001

644328-001

973968-001 Lens........................................................................................................

614661-001
998586-001

973668-002 Subbase..................................................................................................

607896-001

974252-003
974252-005

973844-001 1/2 in. Collet Nut....................................................................................

976242-001 Optional Edge Guide.............................................................................. .. 1

976269-001

060721-630
060721-530
060721-430

060721-030 Optional Guide Bushing w/Nut (11/32 in. x 7/16 in.).......................... .. 1

972000-416 Owner’s Manual

* * *

Labe!.......................................................................................

*

Screw (#5-10 X 1/2 in. Fil. Hd.)

Screw (#8-10 X 1-3/8 in. Fil. Hd.)..............................................

*

Screw (#8-18 X 9/16 in. Fil. Hd. T.C.)

Lower Bearing Plate...............................................................................

*

Screw (#6-10 X 3/4 in. Pan Hd.)

Auxiliary Handle Assembly.....................................................................

*

Screw (#6-20 X 5/8 in. Pan Hd. T.C.)

*

Set Screw (#8-32 x 7/16 in. Flat Point)

Needle Roller..........................................................................................

*

Shoulder Screw (#10-32 X 5/16 in. Pan Hd.)

Shaft Lock Label.....................................................................................

Base Assembly (Includes Key No. 17)

Chip Shield..............................................................................................

Power Handle Assembly.........................................................................

Lamp Base..............................................................................................

*

Screw (#8-18X5/8 in. Fil. Hd.)...............................................................

Bulb........................................................................................................

-*
Screw (#10-32 X 1/2 in. Flat Hd.)

*

Screw (#10-32 X 1/4 in. Pan Hd.)........................................................ ..4

Retaining Ring........................................................................................

1/2 in. Collet Assembly (Inc. Key No. 33 And One Of Key No. 36).. .. 1

1/4 in. Coliet Assembly (Inc. Key No. 33 And One Of Key No. 36).. .. 1

Shoulder Screw.......................................................................................

***

Optional Guide Bushing Adapter............................................................

***

Optional Guide Bushing w/Nut (1/4 in. x 5/16 in.)............................... .. 1

Optional Guide Bushing w/Nut (1/4 in. x 3/8 in.)................................ .. 1

Optional Guide Bushing w/Nut (1/2 in. x 5/8 in.)................................

Description Quan.

.................................................

.............................................................................................

..............................................................................................

..................................................

.........................................................

.........................................................

..................................................

...............................................

...................................................................................

........................................

...................................................

.........................................................

. 1
. 1
. 1
.3

. 1
. 1

. 1
. 1
. 4
. 1
.2
. 1
.8
. 1
.2
. 1
. 1

.. 1
.. 1

. 1

.. 1
.. 1
.. 1

.. 1
.. 1

.. 1
..2
.. 1
.. 1

.. 1

.. 1

..2

.. 2
.. 1
.. 1

.. 1

.. 1

NOTE: "A

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.

* Standard Hardware Item — May Be Purchased Locally

19

.....

....

***

Optional Accessory (Not Shown) — Available At Your Nearest Sears Retail Store

Get it fixed, at your home or ours!

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home,

no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

1-800-4-MY-HOME

(1-800-469-4663)

www.sears.com

SM

Anytime, day or night

To bring in products such as vacuums, lawn equipment and electronics

for repair, call for the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night

www.sears.com

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner’s manuals

that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears Parts Direct®^ I

1-800-366-PART 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. CST,

(1-800-366-7278) 7 days a week

WWW. sears .com/partsd i rect

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement:

1-800-827-6655

7 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST, Mon. - Sat,

Para pedir servicio de reparación a domicilio,

y para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio:

1-888-SU-HOGAR®^

(1-888-784-6427)

® Registered Trademark / ™ Trademark of Sears, Roebuck and Co.

© Sears. Roebuck and Co,

® Marca Registrada / Marca de Fábrica de Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Au Canada pour service en français:

1-877-LE-FOYER®^

(1-877-533-6937)