I just went through my second router in my router table. The first was a Bosch 1617EVS, lasted about 3 years and the latest casualty is a DeWalt 618, lasted about 2.5 years. Both are very good routers, and to be clear, what has been failing is the bearings. I think part of the reason is my enclosed cabinet style router table had dust collection only at the fence (up top) and nothing inside the box. I have recently added dust control and make-up air venting into the router chamber and we'll see if that improves things.
It seems to me that a couple of things are going on. First, the router chamber is a hostile environment with a good deal of dust flying around, not to mention heat. Second, the router is upside down, exposing it to dust infiltration even more.
Is there a reason routers are not TEFC?
Have others had these issues with router life in an enclosed style router table?
Are there steps I could take to lengthen life like maybe blowing out the router with compressed air from time to time?
Is there a particular brand of router that has a better reputation for surviving the rigors of a router table? I use a Rockler Router Lift FX, so I'm limited to the 2 1/4 hp class (Bosch 1617, DeWalt 618, PC 890 and a few others). The most demanding applications for me are routing dovetail drawer boxes with a Keller Jig and some raised panel work. With the exception of the dovetail jig, I generally take my time and take very small bites, partly for the sake of the tool, but mostly for quality of cut.
By the way, I had the Bosch repaired, and kept it as a back-up so it's in the table now. The DeWalt is going to the repair shop for the same surgery.
Any feedback appreciated...