Ultimate Router Sled Hardware Kit

The Crafted Elements system was very easy to assemble. Everything was perfectly marked. The assembly video provided on the website explained everything perfectly. I was able to assemble, adjust, and use the system the first time - without need to re-adjust anything. The photos attached show my set-up and first use on a 18" by 40" piece of walnut crotch 2-1/2" thick. > I set up a space outside so the dust generated would be easy to deal with. I installed a false ceiling of 12 ft. corrugated plastic to keep the rain off my work area. > I built a worktable using a 1" thick 36"x72" MDF laminated table top. > The linear rails are attached to 'straight' 2x4s with screws, and those 2x4s are held on to the worktop with clamps, so that I can remove them easily and move the whole gantry system indoors - to keep the system out of the rain, between jobs. It was easy to align and space the linear rails so that the 'bridge' moved smoothly along the length of the system. > The workpiece had a significant twist, so I used a powered planer to take off the highest points on both sides before placing it on the worktable. I did not need to use any clamps on the workpiece to keep it from moving - it was heavy enough by itself. (I just used shimming wedges under the workpiece to keep it from wobbling). > I used my Bosch 1/2" router and a spoilboard router bit - without a collet extension. (I did not end up using the dust skirt 'brush' as there was not enough space under the mounting - without the recommended collet extension). > Result... a flattened slab, ready for sanding. > The only issue I faced was related to the fact that the linear rails are in 2 pieces, and when sliding the 'bridge' along the length of the system, the 'slides' 'hit' the rail joints at the same time, making it difficult to slide the 'bridge' past the middle of the system. The next time I set up the system, I plan to 'offset' the joints in the linear rails - so that only one end of the bridge will hit the linear rail joints as a time. If this does not make it smooth enough, I will consider purchasing 8 foot linear rails to make it easier to move the 'bridge' along the work piece.

Outstanding! Everything is solid as a rock, smooth as silk and SIMPLE to build. Very, very impressed with this kit- thanks guys!

Used a 60" x 30" folding table and a 4' x 8' sheet of 3/4 inch plywood to make a table to build the router sled on. It was what I had and it works great. I have used it several times now and am very happy with how it works.