Custom Router Cabinet + Bosch RA1181

A concept I had around 10 months ago after watching Steve Ramsey’s router cabinet episode.

I used similar framework to Steve’s cabinet but added European drawer slides instead of making my own drawer guides.

I also went with plywood fronts instead of framing my drawer fronts.

I originally was going to make my own router plate and add hydraulic shocks for easy access.

But it turns out that I didn’t need that type of access and just used my Bosch RA1181 Table.

My original plans also called for an elaborate PVC pipe design with a big gulp vent for dust control.

But I ended up using the already installed Bosch RA1181 dust control port.

I’m still not happy with my dust control design because a lot of dust gets into the lower cabinet.

I may end up going back to my original PVC dust control design.

Instead of buying another power switch I used the Bosch RA1181’s power switch.

This made the build interesting becuase it was not going to fit flush inside the front of the cabinet.

I had to customize the area that housed the switch. Looking back, I should have made sure the grain in that area was uniformed with the rest of the cabinet front.

But we all live, learn, and move on.

I did not want to put a standard power outlet plate in the front of the cabinet, so I made my own wooden one.

In addition I made my own strain relief bushing for the power cable in the back.

The cons to the Bosch RA1181 table is that it’s aluminum and I hear it has a tendency to ship warped or bend easily.

My Bosch RA1181 table is not perfect, but it isn’t warped or bent in any way.

For now, it will come in very handy, and I’m happy with the build.

Custom Designs In This Build:

• Power Outlet Wooden Housing
• Strain Relief Wooden Bushing
• RA1181 Power Switch Wooden Housing

Materials Used:

• 3/4″ Common Pine Plywood
• 2×4 Studs
• Titebond II Wood Glue
• Kreg Pocket hole screws
• DeWalt 1 ½” Brad Nails
• Liberty 3 ¾” Nickel Plated Drawer/Cabinet Pulls
• TLHOME  1 ½” Heavy Duty Casters
• Melamine Board
• EZCable Clips (For Internal Wiring)
• Varathane Dark Walnut Stain + Poly
• Leviton 15 Amp Single Outlet
• Leviton 15 Amp 125v 3 Wire Plug
• Everbilt Touch Latch

YouTube Video

Build Photos