I recently purchased a DW618 router (2.25hp) and used it for the first time with a new 1/2 shank, 1/4 cutting diameter bit. After routing approximately 60 inches at a depth of 5/8 inch over about five passes (roughly 1/8 inch per pass), the router became so hot that I couldn't touch it. Even the plunge base was too hot to handle. It took over an hour in front of a fan for it to cool down. Is this overheating typical for a router?
2 Answers
That’s definitely not normal! While routers can get warm after extended use, it shouldn't be too hot to touch. Since it’s a new router, you should consider returning it. It may have a defect if it's getting that hot. Good luck!
Your router has a 12 amp motor, which translates to about 1400 watts. Some energy is lost as friction when routing, but a lot will turn into heat, measured around 3.71 BTU per watt. Routers do get hot after prolonged use, but if other users report similar overheating with this model, it may point to a defective motor.
That makes sense, thanks for clarifying! I’ll definitely follow up and see if I can return it.
Thanks for the advice! I might just send it back even though it's out of warranty. Hopefully, Dewalt will help me out.