Hugh,
I wanted to add something here. You should not have to keep retightening a router bit after each cut.
Having been a woodworker for 25+ years and having used routers to mill aluminum, here are a few safety tips:
- When inserting bit in collet make sure bit is not bottomed out all the way. Insert bit until it bottoms out and then slightly raise it up about 1/32 or 1/16″.
The easy way to do this is to snug collet enough so you can insert bit into collet, and that bit will stay put when you take your hand off, then bottom bit out. Then while pulling outward, slightly twist bit about 1/8 of a turn to relieve bit from touching bottom, then tighten collet.
- I have noticed that if a bit is bottomed out, it can work loose even when routing wood. By relieving slightly so bit is not touching, I have never had one come loose.
Hope this helps readers stay safe. – William in NC