This is the first episode of my router table upgrade project which begins with an overview of the pros and cons of my current router table that I built 25 years ago and that has served me well in countless projects. But it is time for an upgrade, which I will present to you in this multi-part video series.

In this project, I plan on performing several custom and off-the-shelf upgrades starting with a custom router lift system, then adding a custom solid wood tabletop with a new Rockler micro adjusting fence and Kreg insert plate with quick-change bit collars, all sitting on top of a new large mobile cabinet with plenty of storage.

In this first episode, I walk you through the modification of my Porter Cable Plunge Router (Model 7529) allowing me to adjust router bit height using a crank handle from the top of the table. This modification gave me a low-cost alternative to buying an expensive router lift system, which then would have forced me to buy a new router (which I didn't need). All in all, I saved myself $1000 with this option. If you are hobbyist like me and don't have a big budget, this option may be right for you.