Festool PN574354 user manual Basic Operation, Changing Router Bits, Changing Collets

Basic Operation

Changing Router Bits

The OF 2200 EB has the unique feature of a ratcheting spindle lock. Because the spindle lock is ratcheted, you don't need to remove the wrench to make multiple turns of the collet nut; simply move the wrench back and forth.

The router also has an extremely deep spindle bore (3 ½ inches/89 mm). Very few router bits are long enough to bottom out in the spindle, which would prevent them from tightening properly. The router bit gripping surface of the collet is approximately 1 inch deep (shown below).

WARNING! To reduce the risk of injury, unplug the router before changing the router bit.

1.Insert the router bit into the collet at least one inch. This will vary with different bits, but most of the shank should be within the collet.

2.Place the collet wrench on the collet nut.

3.Press the left-hand side of the spindle lock.

4.Tighten the collet nut firmly, but it is not necessary to over-tighten the nut.

5.Remove the wrench from the collet nut before starting the router.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of injury, never operate the router without properly securing the router bit in the collet.

6.To remove a router bit, follow the same procedure except press the right-hand side of the spindle lock.

NOTICE: Do not tighten the collet nut without a router bit in the collet. Doing so will distort the collet.

Changing Collets

The router can use a variety of router bits with different shank diameters by changing the collet. The router can use 1/4-in., 3/8-in., 1/2-in., and 8mm collets. The collet is integral with the collet nut, so unscrewing the collet nut will pull the collet out of the tapered spindle.

To change collets, unscrew the existing collet all the way out of the spindle and screw the new collet into the spindle.

NOTICE: Avoid leaving a router bit installed in the collet for long periods of time (during storage), because the bit and collet can stick together and be difficult to separate. Refer to the Maintenance section on page 23 for collet maintenance.

Note: The collet is held into the collet nut with an O-ring. The collet can be separated from the collet nut only when there is no router bit in the collet. If you inadvertently separate the collet from the nut, press the collet into the nut until it snaps in position, and then gently pack the O-ring in between the collet and the nut with a small, blunt tool. Avoid removing the collet from the nut, except for maintenance.

Supplemental User’s Manual 9