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I converted a long workbench into an optional router table with a removable fence that doubles as a fence for my miter saw when needed. I will add some dust collection to it when I get a dust port. I can convert it back to a solid bench with a plate made of MDF if I remove the router and router plate. I can adjust the depth from above the bench with a long hex key and I wired an outlet under the bench with an on/off switch near the miter saw for convenience. It seems to be a more appropriate use of that space since my workshop isn't that big. I assume I will make improvements as I go but so far it works great.

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1,833 Posts
Sweet set up, looks amazing.
 

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That looks great!I really want to make a router table!What finish did you use on the workbench top?
 

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17 Posts
ashe,
I used 4 or 5 coats of oil based Poly
 

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Thanks Tom,the finish looks great on it!
 

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what a great twist on the old table saw extension router table. Looking to get rid of my dedicated router table and integrate it into…well now I have choices. Tidy shop too.
 

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Looks great!
I'm still going back and forth between making a seperate router table/cart or building it into a bench with the miter saw like you have. Do you find the poly slick enough for running stock past the router? Is the poly on MDF or hardboard?
Good job!
 

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HighPointWW,
Its definitely slick enough. You need to take care however, when applying the last few coats. I treated it like a piece of furniture, put each successive coat on at night to minimize any dust particles and sanded it smooth in between coats. I was actually surprised at how well it came out. The benchtop is made of MDF because that seemed the most stable material to use. I wasn't sure how it would come out myself but I figured if it didn't work, I would just slide a piece of MDF back in the 9×12 hole and I'd have a bench again.
 
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