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The 7518 is 3rd among 3 in the 3hp Fixed Base Routers analysis ladder. It is 31th among 93 in the Routers category. At $252.65, the Porter Cable 7518 is 3rd in 3hp Fixed Base Routers and 66th among Routers at $176.53. It is ranked 35th of 116 for Porter Cable.

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Click here for reviews, product features, descriptions for the Porter Cable 7518 Speedmatic Router (3.25HP, 5 Speed). Let us know what you think of 7518 by writing your own review. Please purchase from our listed sources to support Toolcritic.

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grade B
WHAT'S THIS?

Easy Depth Adjustment, But No Dust Collection
Wood Magazine, Volume 164, 2005-09

The reviewer especially liked the way the motor threads up and down in the router's base, which makes it easy to make rapid height changes, as well as fine adjustments. This is true whether the router is in the table or handheld. Another high point is that the collet can be raised high enough to change most bits from above the table. One low point is that the power switch and speed control change position as the cutting height changes when the router is being used in a table. Another low point is that no dust collection accessories are included or even available for this router. This is a particularly important issue because the router's fan is powerful enough to sometimes pull debris into its air intake. Another low point is that a 1/4" collet is not included with the tool. The reviewer noted that field cuts are more difficult with this fixed-based router without plunge action, and that the motor in this model works in an unprecedented number of router lifts. The motor has five discrete speeds instead of continuously variable speed. The motor speed fluctuates when under a load, although this does not affect cut quality. The Porter-Cable company explains that this varying speed is due to the router's electronic feedback system that uses current instead of motor speed to determine the proper speed, whereas newer speed control systems use motor speed as the indicator signal. The reviewer said this unusual behavior is also present in the Porter-Cable 7539 model.

Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp 3-1/4 Horsepower Fixed Base 5-Speed Router VERY GOOD MACHINE I WOULD RECOMED TO ANYONE (More)

A very good, powerful router. Good for big bits and heavy cuts. We use this router motor in conjunction with the Bench Dog lift and table to make a "mini shaper" for some special machining. Have... (More)

When it comes to woodworking, Porter-Cable is my choice of tool. This router is another fine example. (More)