1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your INGCO RT160028 1600 Watt Electric Plunge Router. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool to ensure proper function and to prevent injury.
The INGCO RT160028 is a versatile machine designed for various woodworking tasks, including cutting decorative edges, creating grooves for storm windows, and shaping wood with smooth, round, or oval edges. Its robust 1600 Watt motor and adjustable plunge capacity make it suitable for both household and professional applications.
2. General Safety Instructions
Always follow basic safety precautions when using electric tools to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.
- Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating the tool for extended periods. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair.
- Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
- Maintenance: Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation.
3. Product Overview and Components
Familiarize yourself with the components of your INGCO Plunge Router RT160028 before operation.
Figure 3.1: Front-side view of the INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router. This image displays the main body, handles, plunge mechanism, and collet area.
Figure 3.2: Front view of the INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router, highlighting the depth adjustment scale and plunge lock levers.
Figure 3.3: Rear view of the INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router, showing the power cord connection and product specification label.
Included Components:
- 1 x INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router
- 1 x Coping Ring
- 1 x Aluminum Guide Fence
- 1 set x Parallel Guide
- 1 set x Carbon Brushes
- Collets: 6mm, 8mm, 12mm, 1/4", 1/2"
Figure 3.4: Packaging of the INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router, illustrating the included accessories such as the coping ring, guide fence, and parallel guide.
4. Setup and Assembly
4.1. Installing the Router Bit
- Ensure the router is unplugged from the power source.
- Press and hold the spindle lock button.
- Loosen the collet nut using the provided wrench.
- Insert the router bit into the collet, ensuring at least 3/4 of the shank is seated.
- Tighten the collet nut firmly with the wrench while holding the spindle lock.
4.2. Attaching the Parallel Guide
- Slide the parallel guide rods into the designated slots on the router base.
- Adjust the guide to the desired distance from the router bit.
- Secure the guide by tightening the locking screws.
4.3. Setting Plunge Depth
- Place the router on a flat surface with the bit just touching the workpiece.
- Release the plunge lock levers.
- Adjust the depth stop rod to the desired cutting depth using the scale.
- Engage the plunge lock levers to secure the depth setting.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Powering On/Off
- To turn on, press the power switch.
- To turn off, release the power switch. Some models may have a lock-on button for continuous operation, which must be disengaged to turn off.
5.2. Routing Techniques
- Direction of Feed: Always feed the router against the rotation of the bit. This provides better control and prevents the router from "climbing" the workpiece.
- Multiple Passes: For deeper cuts, make several shallow passes instead of one deep pass. This reduces strain on the motor and bit, and results in a cleaner cut.
- Workpiece Securement: Always clamp your workpiece securely to a stable surface before routing.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your router.
- Cleaning: After each use, unplug the tool and clean dust and debris from the ventilation openings and around the collet area using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Bit Care: Keep router bits sharp and clean. Dull bits can cause kickback and poor cut quality.
- Carbon Brushes: The carbon brushes may need replacement after extended use. Refer to the specifications for brush life. Replace both brushes at the same time.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a small amount of light machine oil to the plunge columns to ensure smooth operation.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Router does not start | No power supply; Faulty switch; Worn carbon brushes | Check power connection; Test switch; Replace carbon brushes |
| Excessive vibration | Loose bit; Bent bit; Damaged bearings | Tighten bit; Replace bit; Contact service center |
| Poor cut quality / Burning wood | Dull bit; Incorrect feed rate; Too deep cut | Replace/sharpen bit; Adjust feed rate; Make shallower passes |
| Plunge mechanism sticks | Dust/debris on columns; Lack of lubrication | Clean plunge columns; Lubricate columns |
8. Technical Specifications
| Model Number | RT160028 |
| Input Power | 1600 Watt |
| No-load Speed | 22000 rpm |
| Plunge Capacity | 0-60 mm |
| Collet Size | 6 mm, 8 mm, 12 mm, 1/4", 1/2" |
| Voltage | 220-240 V |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Item Weight | 5.5 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions | 29 x 21 x 24 cm |
Figure 8.1: Dimensional representation of the INGCO RT160028 Plunge Router, showing its height of 10 inches (26 cm).
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact INGCO customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Ingco
Model: RT160028
