How to Replace Individual Collet Components on a Porter Cable Router (690 Series)

Running out of patience with a run-down router? It's time to face the fix. Whether you are a master carpenter or a weekend woodworker, eReplacementParts.com provides the parts, procedures and facts you need to fearlessly fix what fails you.

While it's common to replace an entire collet assembly, replacing individual collet components is an easy and economical way to keep your router running. So, if the threads become stripped on the collet nut; or the collet itself no longer holds router bits properly; or you've simply misplaced the collet retaining ring; you can replace these parts individually and capture significant savings compared to replacing the entire assembly.

Regardless of the collet component you are replacing, the process remains simple and similar. This article provides step-by-step instructions for removing and installing the nut, retaining ring, and the collet on a Porter Cable 690 series router.

Let's get started.

  DISASSEMBLING THE COLLET ASSEMBLY [top] 1. Disassemble the collet assembly.

Use snap-ring pliers to remove the retaining-ring from the collet assembly.

Remove the nut from the collet assembly.

  REPLACING THE COLLET PARTS [top] 2. Replace the collet components.

With the collet disassembled, replace any (or all) of the individual components as needed.

Replace the collet nut (as needed).

Replace the collet (as needed).

Replace the retaining-ring (as needed).

  REASSEMBLING THE COLLET ASSEMBLY [top] 3. Reassembling the collet assembly.

Note that the ends of the collet are different. One end contains a machined outer surface (thicker); the other end contains a (thinner) outer surface and a groove around the edge, which holds the retaining-ring in position.

Reinstall the nut onto the collet assembly (the open end of the nut should face the machined portion of the collet; the flanged end of the nut should face the retaining-ring).

Use snap-ring pliers to reinstall the retaining-ring.

Dovetails. Rabbets. Dados. Grooves: The possibilities are as priceless as machines that create them. But you don't have to be a carpenter to cut out the middle-man. Repairing your own powered equipment is easy and economical when you follow our step-by-step guides. Not only did you restore your router at a fraction of the cost of replacement; you built on your ability to face the next fix, whatever it may be.

Find your next fix here.   [top]