I have a Bosch 1617, and liked it...til the magnesium corroded. Bosch will replace the motor, but not the bases. New bases - $122 for plung, $55 for fixed...almost the price of a new kit. A very imformative person from Rockler told me that this a 'common problem' which happens in the south, which they solved by using Aluminum motor casings. Well the bases are still mangnesium and it'll still corrode. So a) I'm not getting another Bosch 'magnesium' and b) I'm not real happy w/ Bosch right now... If you live in the south do NOT get a bosch 1617....
SO, the question is what's a good replacement. I used this router as the combo kit a lot, but also bought an extra fixed base for router table. Was looking at the Porter Cable 895 (since I love my very old and heavily used 690) but reviews and recommendations for the 895 aren't so good. From what I've seen people (and reviews) of the Milwaukee 5616 seem to be pretty good. But not too many posts on it from the threads. Lots on the 5625 - which people love...
What about the 5616-24 (Combo kit) peoples/owners opinions of this?? A good replacement?? I'd especially like to hear how you like the plung base. Or other recommendations?
Thanks,
Perry