Triton Woodworking Equipment

The core of the excellent Triton Workshop System is the Workcentre (WCB220).

The following pictures and text should give you an idea of the potential of this clever, flexible, transportable machine.

Here is the Workcentre chassis, shown with legs folded, ready for hanging on a wall, or putting in the back of a car.

The unit comes in two boxes, with exceptionally clear and easy-to-follow assembly instructions, both on paper and video.

Here, with the legs unfolded (spring-loaded ball-bearing locating catches for both open and closed positions), you can also see the integral NVR switch and the (optional) Retractable Wheel Kit (AWA200) fitted to the rear legs.
The sliding chassis fits between the upper bearing channels. To this is mounted a circular saw - in this case the very powerful and accurate Triton Precision 235mm (9¼") Saw (TSB001).

Also seen is the side guard (shown folded outwards for clarity) and the optional Winder Kit (WCA390), used to adjust blade height from above the table.

Once the saw is mounted, the sliding chassis is then inverted, ready to fit the Workcentre sawtable.

The side guard can now be seen in its (vertical) operating position.

The sawtable is now fitted to the chassis.

It positively locates and locks into both ends of the Workcentre and the sliding chassis (and, therefore, the saw) is locked into it.

The fence is inserted - rip capacity is 620mm (just over 24") - and the overhead safety guard is fitted. The fence can be fitted on either side of the blade. The guard has an inbuilt take-off port for dust extraction, together with flexible anti-kickback fingers.
The protractor is used for angled cuts, but also doubles as a featherboard for rip cutting when locked into its slot.

The flexible pressure finger holds the stock tight against the rip fence as it is pushed through.

Attached via a machined slot in the fence, the guided push stick allows the wood to pass beneath it and is then used in the final part of the cut, as seen below.

Once the stock passes the arm of the guided push stick, it can be used to complete the cut, keeping the operator's fingers well clear of the blade.
The protractor can be used as a mitre gauge and a cross-cut guide. Its faces are lined with abrasive to enhance grip on the stock.

The protractor fits into slots on either side of the blade and stores on the rear of the Workcentre when not in use.

A close-up of the protractor in use.
The fence can also be reversed, which brings the 45° side into operation.

It is fitted with bevel guides, enabling a 45° bevel to be cut, as shown in the picture below.

The adjustable bevel guides surround the blade to keep the stock stable throughout the cut. The overhead guard needs slightly re-positioning in its slot to work with these guides.
Ripping and cross-cutting capacity can be greatly increased by the addition of the Maxi Sliding Extension Table (ETA300), shown here.

The inner arm fits rigidly to the Workcentre and the adjustable freestanding arm allows the table to be levelled, whatever the terrain.

The fence can be seen fitted to the trailing edge of the sliding table in this picture. If used for cross-cutting, the operator can push the workpiece through and walk behind the sliding table (between the extension rails) in complete safety.
The table can be locked in position at the middle of its travel and the fence positioned parallel to the sawblade to enable the ripping of large sheets, as shown here.
The extension table fence can be set at any desired angle, to allow for tapers, or angled rips - shown exaggerated here.
The Workcentre can also be used in crosscut mode. This involves fitting the sawtable beneath the bearing channels, onto adjustable supports fitted to both end panels. These adjustable cross-cut table supports are essential to account for the wide range of circular saws that can be used with the Workcentre.

The saw is then used upright, or in bevel mode, on its sliding chassis. It can be powered on and off using the NVR switch, or conventionally, using the saw trigger.

Crosscut mode, seen from the rear of the unit. The cutting line (and - therefore - the sighting line) can be seen in the vertical MDF fence.

Bevel through cuts can also be carried out in the crosscut mode, using a sacrificial layer of ply or MDF as required.

Triton Router Table

A Router Table (RTA300) increases the versatility of the Workcentre even further. It locks to the chassis at the front and into both bearing channels. The router can be powered through the Workcentre's NVR switch.
Alternatively, a dedicated Router Table Stand (RSB300) is available for the Router Table.

The front legs fit inside the rear legs and the leg pairs are secured to the chassis for storage and transport, as shown here.

The router table and stand assembled together and ready for work (note the stand's own integral NVR switch).
Inverting the router plate to fit a router - in this instance the very powerful Triton 3¼HP model (TRB001). The table comes with sufficient alternative fastenings that virtually any router can be accommodated.
The advantage of the Triton router is seen clearly in this picture - above-the-table bit changes, even with the router's own base plate still attached.
The router table comes with a host of accessories, shown here. The metal fence fits through the table via T-bolts and has alignment scales in both inches and millimetres.

The MDF fence facings are spring-loaded and can be used as jointing guides with the supplied shim sets. The vertical hold-downs are infinitely adjustable to keep stock tight to the table.

The guard is in two parts and includes a dust extraction port. The base of the guard can be clipped directly to the table for free-hand work, where it is designed to double as a lead-in pin. Two sizes of bayonet-fitting insert are provided, plus a sliding table and protractor.

Also seen are the two horizontal pressure fingers, which can also be fitted directly to the table for planing operations.

The table top has very clear markings, showing the rotation of the router and the workpiece feed direction.

This rear view shows the T-bolts and the pairs of double springs that hold the fence facings. Fence shims, used to advance the outfeed face, are stored in pairs on the outer braces. The braces are adjustable to ensure a perfect 90° to the table top.

Also seen are the microadjusters, fitted into the T-slots behind the fence and used to ease the fence forward when minute changes are required. They store on the fence itself.

Here, a slot cutter is fitted in preparation to use the Biscuit Joiner System (BJA300).
Here, the system is shown fitted to the table. A black, spring-loaded plunger (one is at each end of the MDF platform) can be seen, together with the reference fence, containing additional "windows" for improved safety and dust extraction. The cutter stores in one end of the fence, together with an additional ¼" shaft for use with smaller routers.

Two pieces of stock are held tightly to the right-angle created by the adjustable upper fence and the unit works by moving towards each side of the table (approximately 29mm in each direction) against the spring-loaded plungers.

In this picture, two pieces of stock are being lined up to make a butt biscuit joint. The face sides are facing downwards to ensure perfect line-up, even if the pieces are of slightly different thickness.

Because both slots are cut off the same reference face, they will line up perfectly, without the need to measure.

These are the slots cut into the workpieces.
After reversing the reference fence in order to use its 45° faces, these are the resulting slots for this mitre-reinforcing biscuit joint.
To use conventional (size "20") biscuits, the joint is marked, lined up with the "20" mark on the main fence, plunged then moved in the direction of the arrow until the next mark is reached (as in the next picture).
Here, the pencil mark (referred to in the above picture) is at the end of its travel.
This is the result - a size "20" biscuit slot, centered on the pencil mark.
Another cutter change, this time to a ½" gapped-flute straight cutter (for more efficient chip clearance), in preparation to use the finger jointer to cut ½" finger joints.
Here is the Finger Jointer (FJA300), fitted to the table. It can cut both ½" and ¼" joints. The two hollow fences (one fixed, one adjustable) are connected with a flexible tube at the left-hand end, for dust extraction. A dust collector is fitted to the other end of the fixed fence and handles chip collection from both fences in this way.
The initial workpiece offset required is obtained by this steel plate, known as the "Initial Cut Stop." It sits on adjustable posts which are aligned to the centre of the cutter. The workpieces are clamped together once the offset is achieved.
The posts can be more clearly seen in this shot, together with the metal "finger" (between the fences), which is used to locate subsequent cuts during the making of the finger joints.
Here is a view of the underside of the jointer, for clarity. The ½" finger, once adjusted, has a spacer locked tightly against it, for accurate future re-location.

A second spacer (seen "parked" just ahead of the platform) is available for use with the ¼" finger. The cutter shrouds, held to each fence by a screw, are reversible to bring the ¼" cutter shroud into position.

A closer look at the finger, with its locating spacer locked in position for future re-location.
The result of four further passes, after the initial cut, made against the stop. The stop is then removed and the finger is used to locate each subsequent cut.

Superjaws

Here are the Superjaws (SJA200), folded down for storage or transport. The rear leg doubles as a carrying handle for the unit, which weighs 15Kg. (33 lbs.)
The rear leg, released from its retaining socket, can now be swivelled into position and then into the rear leg socket.
The rear leg has now entered the leg socket. It now needs pushing home and the retaining knob securing.
The rear leg shown fully home, ready for work.
The front legs are swung forward into position and held by locking knobs. This picture shows the left-hand leg locked to the clamp assembly, the right-hand locking knob still open for comparison.
The unit, ready for use. The "open tripod" configuration makes it easy to use on rough terrain.
Unlike the original model, the front plate of the clamping assembly is not pivoted, but it does contain the (red) clamping lock - shown here in the unlocked position.
Although the unit comes with a nine-page user manual, the main points are right in front of the user, on the front of the clamping assembly.
Here's the clamping lock in the locked position. The pedal is now pressed to final gripping pressure.

To release the workpiece, the lock is slid upward. However, nothing happens until the pedal is pressed again, releasing the tension and un-clamping the workpiece.

Multi-Stand

Shown folded for storage or transport, the Multi-Stand (MSA200) takes up little space.
In the operating position, the wide tripod base makes this an extremely stable and robust unit, which will take loads up to 100kg (220lb).

The top low-friction slide surfaces provide smooth, controlled travel when used as an outfeed, without the unwanted "steering" effect of a roller.

It adjusts in height from 635mm to 940mm (25" - 37") and the head swivels and tilts.

Here, the Multi-Stand is supporting a door, using the clamp which is built into the head.

The Triton 3¼HP Router

The Router (TRB001) comes with a collet wrench, a straight cutter, a ¼" collet reducer, a metal baseplate with fence attachment and a ten-page instruction booklet. The front cover of the booklet included the following declaration:

IMPORTANT
This router has a number of unique features. Even if you are familiar with routers, please read this manual to make sure you get the full benefits of the unique design.

This is well worth the time spent, in order to be able to confidently switch between the different plunge modes, set the depth stop and attach the fence without any problems. All of these functions have really been well thought out and are impressive in both design and ease of execution.

Here's an overview of the router, both front and rear views, with the main features numbered.
N.B: The wing nut on the metal baseplate is part of the trammel (compass) facility, described later.

Front View

  1. Fully enclosed safety shields (remain fitted when changing bits).
  2. Illuminated switch with shutter to prevent accidental starting.
  3. Powerful 3¼HP motor with soft start.
  4. Easy to set turret stops with direct reading calibrations.
  5. Multi-function fence. Incorporates extended baseplate and circle cutting features.
  6. Variable speed (8,000 to 20,000 rpm) with speed maintenance under load.
  7. Removable plunge spring reduces plunge resistence when table-mounted.
  8. Plunge locking lever.
Rear view

  1. Winder handle rack-and-pinion plunge for fast depth adjustment.
  2. Conversion switch for plunge or winder depth setting.
  3. Micro-winder for precise depth setting through the full range.
  4. Large bore dust port for effective chip extraction.
  5. ½" collet (with ¼" reducer).
  6. Shaft lock automatically engages in cutter change mode.
  7. Triton ½" Premium TCT Router Bit included.

This is a big machine, but not heavy for its size, weighing in at 6Kg (13.2 lbs.). Being designed for use in a router table (part of the Triton system), it has a couple of features that are particularly useful for table mounting. The first is that the plunge spring is easily removeable, so that you don't have to fight the spring when trying to adjust the height.

To remove the plunge spring you slacken the screw which secures the spring cap - located above the right-hand column - then carefully turn the cap anti-clockwise (about an eighth of a turn to release the bayonet fitting), making sure to keep downward pressure to hold the spring. Once the cap has cleared the fitting, you can slowly release the spring from its housing.

The cap has a central rod to prevent the top of the spring deforming when being replaced and it is a simple matter to return the spring and engage the bayonet fitting.

Also visible is the dust extraction port, which has a left-hand thread of 38mm outside diameter (the adaptor fitted is mine).

The second feature is that the plunge depth allows the collet to extend past the router base when fully plunged, as shown here. This is useful for bit-changing generally, but becomes especially useful and convenient for bit-changing whilst table-mounted.

When the router is fully plunged, the spindle lock is automatically engaged and the power switch is by-passed so that the machine cannot be operated in this position, even accidentally.

The router has a rack and pinion mechanism built into the right-hand column - rear view shown here. This enables the router height to be adjusted by turning the right-hand handle when using the rack and pinion. This is both simple and effective in use and when mounted in a router table it is particularly brilliant! The router can be wound up or down with ease, especially with the plunge spring removed.

Also in this picture you can see the spindle lock cam protruding from the main body. As the router reaches its full plunge depth the cam is activated, which will engage the spindle lock in one of four indents in the rotor as soon as the main shaft is turned. As stated previously, the power is by-passed when in this position, so there is no possibility of the motor being switched on with the spindle lock engaged.

Both handles are round, smooth and easy to grip. Here is an operator's view of the right-hand handle with the rack and pinion ring lock in the engaged position.
This is the grip used to release the ring lock manually and turn the handle to raise or lower the router height. Once the desired height is reached, release the ring and the machine is locked at that height.
The height adjustment has a number of "steps" throughout its range and these may not fall exactly at the height you require. The micro-adjuster knob is used to set the height accurately and can be used at any of the "steps" when using the rack and pinion plunge method.

This means that micro-adjustment is available over the full plunge depth, but without the need to "take up loads of slack" when the router is plunged deeply.

Also seen in this picture is the plunge spring cap release screw in its unlocked position - the spring cap's bayonet fitting continues to retain the spring.

Here is the plunge lock lever, easily reached by the operator's right thumb. This is a conventional plunge lock when in "free plunge mode" and an extra lock when in rack and pinion mode (recommended for heavy cuts).

I have operated the machine without using it and the rack and pinion mechanism held totally secure. However, engaging the plunge lock lever is best practice, as it is possible to grip the right-hand handle ring lock when operating the router (although not a "natural" motion) and if this was squeezed too hard it could engage the rack and pinion.

When used in a router table, the rack and pinion and the micro-adjuster set the height perfectly. The plunge lock lever in this situation is "belt and braces" when rounding over and profiling with small cutters, but I found myself using it (as best practice) when raising panels with a large bit.

The lever is adjustable for operator comfort and preference. I left mine as it was when I unpacked it, as I find it ideal where it is.

Having described the rack and pinion plunge method, together with its micro-adjuster, the Triton router also has a conventional free plunge action.

This is operated by locking out the rack and pinion with the plunge mode selector, which is built into the end of the right-hand handle. To disengage the rack and pinion mode, the selector is turned in a clockwise direction, then pressed inwards and turned clockwise until it clicks in.

Now the router is free to plunge conventionally, using the plunge lock lever to lock the height if desired.

The plunge depth turret is also an ingenious design. It consists of a sprung-loaded tube, controlled by a depth stop locking knob (out of focus in this picture - sorry!). The turret itself has two adjustable posts and one reference post (shown here with the plunge stop rod in contact with it).

Suppose that you need to rout some 5mm holes for adjustable shelf pins, using a jig. Previously, I had to measure the jig thickness, add the depth of the hole (7mm) then set that depth on the turret by lowering an adjustable scale, then locking it.

With the Triton, nothing could be simpler - I set up the jig, insert the router into position, loosen the locking knob and plunge the router until the cutter comes into contact with the workpiece. With the plunge stop rod in contact with the reference part of the turret, I lock the knob. Now I have a "zero datum" set, so I just need to rotate one of the two alternative adjustable turret post stops to my required plunge, in this case, to 7mm. Once I've done that, I rotate that post under the plunge stop rod and begin routing. Ingenious, effective and simple.

Without reading the booklet before using the tool, I might have spent a bit more time head-scratching, but as soon as I read it and looked at the way it worked, I was able to set it right first time and it's spot-on accurate too.

Here's a closer look at the plunge depth stop turret. The plunge depth rod is in contact with the reference post section of the turret.

You can see that there are two posts with adjustable thumbwheels, so you can set two different or alternative depths if you need to, for incremental plunge depths, for example.

The scales are easy to read and the measurements are accurate. The turret pivots easily, but the indents hold each of the three positions firmly.

The On/Off switch is robust, very safe and another example of thoughful design. In the "Off" position (shown here), the switch is covered by a sliding shutter. The shutter is see-through and the power switch illuminates (red) when power is connected - whether the switch is on or off.
To operate the switch, slide the shutter towards the rear (to the left in this picture) and depress the lower part of the rocker switch. This action rotates the upper part of the switch into the plane of the sliding shutter, thus keeping it open whilst the switch is on.

As soon as the rocker switch is turned off, the sliding shutter returns to its safe covering position.

The switch is locked out when the router is fully plunged in order to fit or remove a cutter. When using a router in a table, it is normal to switch power on and off via a remote switch. This is possible with the Triton, but there is another benefit to the switch design, because with the switch in the "On" position it is impossible to plunge the router into the cutter change position.

Therefore, not only does the switch not allow the router to be switched on (even accidentally) when changing cutters, it will not allow an operator to get into the cutter change position when the switch is on - even though the power is off. Now that's what I call safe!

The variable speed is controlled by this thumbwheel built into the motor cover. It is numbered 1 through 5 for reference, although speed changes are stepless. The reference numbers approximate to the following RPM:

  1. 8,000
  2. 10,000
  3. 14,000
  4. 18,000
  5. 20,000

Below the speed wheel, the front brush replacement cap is also visible.

At the business end is the "Hitachi-style"collet. Here is a view of it "head on." Also seen (at 3 o'clock) is the barrel that contains the spindle locking mechanism.
Here is the collet, removed from the router. It has very steep shoulders in line with the way it works.
Here is the supplied wrench being used to fit a cutter. The wrench has a slight crank about three-quarters along the handle length.

Note the position of the wrench, with the collet loose enough to accept a cutter.

Now note the position of the wrench with the collet fully tight.

This short movement, typical of "Hitachi-style" collets, took me by surprise initially, as it felt un-natural after being used to winding my previous collet at least one complete turn.

Nevertheless, it works superbly and holds large panel-raising bits totally securely.

The router is supplied with a metal baseplate, which has both fence and trammel functions.

Here is the operator's (upper) side of the attachment, shown with the fence fitted:

This is the underside of the baseplate, showing the large and easy-to-use fence adjusters.

The trammel (compass) plate is also visible at the right-hand end of its slot.

The baseplate is attached to the router by releasing two sprung-loaded mounting knobs in order to allow two pins to be located in the keyhole slots.

This picture shows the pin depressed below the router's baseplate, which can be left in position.

Here is the base and fence fitted. It will fit with the "long" side to the right or to the left.
The advantage of fitting the "long" side to the right is that of greater stability on the workpiece and the ability to use the baseplate as an additional "handle" when edge routing, as shown here.
The trammel plate pivot mount has two pre-drilled pin holes to attach it to the workpiece. The recessed head bolt thread is then passed through the baseplate and the radius of the desired circle set with the wing nut. Apologies for the out-of-focus picture!
The final picture shows the router mounted in a Rousseau insert and raised to fit a cutter. The ability to change bits above the table is an exceptional feature!

In use, the router is powerful and stable. Whilst it obviously makes noise, it doesn't omit the same ear-ringing whine of some routers that I have used. The handles, plunge lock and on/off switch are comfortable and a pleasure to use.

The rack and pinion plunge method is a winner, not only because micro-adjustment is available throughout the plunge range, but for under-table use (with the spring removed) it is so easy to operate with absolute accuracy. The depth stop turret is both ingenious and effective. Like most good ideas, it is simple and clear. The added safety features built into the on/off switch are impressive.

In the UK, the Triton TRB001 is in the same price bracket as the Bosch GOF 2000CE, the DeWalt DW626 and the Makita 3612C. I believe that it represents good value for money and the quality of manufacture is obvious as soon as you handle the machine. I have no hesitation in thoroughly recommending this tool.

The Triton 2¼HP Router

Some direct comparisons of this Router (MOF001) with the larger model are offered, where appropriate.

The tool comes in its own moulded carry-case, with toggle clasp fastenings. The contents are neatly arranged, as can be seen from this picture.

The lid contains (top to bottom, left to right):

  • Seven guide bushes
  • Robust, cranked 24mm collet spanner
  • ½" TCT Triton router bit
  • ½" self-releasing collet
  • Template guide plate and alignment bush
  • Table spacer
  • ¼" self-releasing collet
The base of the carry-case contains (from top to bottom):
  • The extended baseplate - instruction manual behind
  • Through table height-adjusting winder
  • Pack of six screws (see post)
  • Chip collector
  • Fence
Here are the two machines side-by-side for size comparison. The larger machine weighs in at 6Kg (13.2 lbs.), whereas the smaller router weighs 1.3Kg (2.8 lbs.) less, at 4.7Kg (10.4 lbs.).
The "back" view completes the comparison picture and some detail differences can be seen. The depth stop, locking knob and three-position adjustable turret are on the back of the new router instead of the front. The variable speed thumbwheel turns in a vertical plane rather than horizontally. The micro-adjuster, spring release cap and power switch are identically placed, although the power cable exits the top of the machine at an angle, rather than vertically. This is better for hand-held working. The dust port is on the front left-hand side, instead of the rear right-hand side.
This view from below shows the smaller base of the new machine. The mounting screws and extended baseplate knobs are in the same locations, but nearer the edge due to the smaller overall base diameter. The baseplate screws are pleasantly robust!
This picture shows the extension to the micro-adjuster on the rear right-hand side. Note the "T"-bar, which is for the above-table winder to engage with.
This shows the scallop in the base of the machine, necessary to accommodate the above-table winding handle. Note the much thicker standard baseplate (see post).
Here is the above-table height-adjusting mechanism in position. Each calibration mark on the disc below the handle represents 0.2mm (1/128") cut depth increment. A full 360° turn changes the cutter height by 2mm (3/32"). I have not drilled my table inserts in order to use the winding handle. For this reason, the handle could not be shown in situ.
Included in the kit are six screws. From the left, the two bright screws (M4) are for the template mounting system, the two 1" and two 5/8" screws are for use with the chip collector (with the standard or extended baseplates). The extreme right-hand screw is one of the standard baseplate screws, for comparison.
The chip collector can be fitted to either the standard or the extended baseplate, using the supplied screws. In this picture, viewed from below, the port is fitted over the standard baseplate, by replacing two of the baseplate screws with two 5/8" screws.
This picture gives an impression of the usefulness of this collection port when used with a bearing-guided bit, such as a profiler.

It's great for edge-profiling, or anything else where there are no lateral restrictions.

The collets are a complete change from the "Hitachi"-style, as fitted to the larger machine. These are the self-releasing type, which require an extra half-turn to release the bit.
A bottom view of the collets.
The substantial, cranked (24mm) collet wrench.
The plunge selector mechanism is a simple push-button, shown here.
This view shows the button fully depressed, providing free plunging action. Another push of the button causes it to spring out and return to the "rack and pinion" mode.

In use, the MOF001 is a delight. It is quiet, easy to control and simple to adjust. The variable speeds handle a wide range and variety of bits and the soft start, although now a common feature, is a real bonus for hand-held working.

The guide bush system does not use the full metal baseplate attachment of the larger model. Instead, it has two lugs in the underside of the standard baseplate, which locate the guide bush carrier plate. This, in itself, needs a more substantial baseplate, which is why the MOF001 has a much thicker version than the larger machine.

Because of the scallop for the above-table winder and the holes for the extended baseplate attachment knobs, re-fitting the baseplate is impossible to get wrong (it also has locating ribs moulded into the underside). If used in a table with guide bushing, a spacing ring is provided - the reason for the length of the supplied M4 screws.

Retaining all of the safety features of its stablemate, the 2¼HP machine combines a user-friendly hand-held router with the best under-table features available. For mid-range tasks, it is an extremely effective machine.

This is a beautifully-made and well-thought-out tool, that I have no hesitation in recommending. No matter how familiar you are with routers and routing, both Triton models have features that are unique, so a thorough read of the instruction manual is an essential first step!

Update: This router was awarded both "Best Features" and "Best Value" in Fine Woodworking Magazine's test of routers for use in router tables (Edition 189, January, 2007). The other routers tested were Bosch 1617EVS, Craftsman 1617-12, Freud FT1700VCE, Milwaukee 5625-29, Porter-Cable 891 and Ridgid R2900.


The Triton 1010W Router - JOF001

I've already reviewed the larger Triton TR001 3¼HP router here and the Triton MOF001 1400W 2¼HP machine here - this review is of the newest Triton, the JOF001 1010W 1?HP machine, with some direct comparisons with other models where appropriate.

The tool comes in a robust, well protected cardboard box which contains:
  • The router
  • Pressed steel 24mm collet spanner
  • ½" self-releasing collet
  • Extended baseplate and guide (fence)
  • Height winder handle
  • Instruction manual
This is the front of the router, as the operator would see it, with the power switch on the left.

It looks familiar, but plainer, due to the absence of the depth stop plunge bar lock, now situated round the back.

The collet wrench is identical in size (24mm) to the MOF001 model

This is the back view, showing the previously-mentioned depth stop lock, with its accompanying three-position turret (identical system to those used on both of the previous models - TRA001 and MOF001).
This left-hand side view shows the now-familiar Triton power switch, with its guard and safety lock.

This works exactly as on previous models, making it impossible to switch on the power with the router in bit-changing (fully plunged) mode.

It also prevents full plunging into the bit-changing mode when the power switch is in the "On" position.

The plain left-hand handle is as on both previous models.

The variable speed adjustment wheel is also visible, showing the maximum of 5. These numbers are only a guide, as the speed is steplessly variable between 8,000 and 21,000 RPM

The right-hand side view shows the two biggest changes in this model - the absence of any mode control lever or button in the right-hand handle and the absence of a plunge spring cap.
Due to the angle of egress of the power cable, the router stands perfectly stable when inverted for bit-changing, etc.

This is a welcome feature, also incorporated on the MOF001, but not on the larger TRA001 model.

This view of the router base shows another distinct difference - the use of only three screws holding the baseplate, instead of the four used on predecessors.

The "T"-bar mechanism for the height winder handle can also be seen (at 8 0'clock).

The two dome-head, spring-tensioned bolts that hold the router into the Triton Router Table (RTA300) are identically placed, so the machine remains compatible for Triton Table use.

Here, the base is removed to reveal the reason behind the three-screw fixing.

On the MOF001 model, the height winder was situated "outside" the base area, via a dimple in the casing. This allowed the baseplate screws to retain identical positions to those on its predecessor (TRA001), thus giving direct compatibility when mounting under a third-party router insert, such as a Rousseau™.

As can be seen in the picture, having four screws would have compromised the inclusion of the winder, which - in this model - uses the right-hand plunge post for access.

I do not envisage any difficulty in re-drilling third-party inserts, should the router be required for table use (other than in the RTA300 Triton Router Table).

The JOF001 baseplate has identical locating lugs to those of the MOF001, so will accept the guide bush insert from the template kit for that model.

The lugs are visible in this photograph (at 11 o'clock and 5 o'clock). The picture also shows the template guide insert in situ.

This picture shows the MOF001 on the left and the JOF001 on the right as a crude comparison.

The most obvious differences are the "simpler" look and the lower-set handles of the JOF001.

This picture shows the JOF001 directly in front of the MOF001 and has been taken from an approximation of "eye level."

In this view, the lower-set handles of the JOF001 are more obvious, as is the slight decrease in overall height from the MOF001. It is also lighter than the MOF001 at 4.3kg (9½lbs.).

This close-up shows the spindle-lock cam, identical to previous models in its operation by locking the spindle automatically when the router is fully plunged for bit changing.

The only operational difference with this router is that the plunge itself is carried out manually (when using freehand), or with the winding handle (or fine height adjuster) when inverted.

This close-up is of the fine height adjuster, which is turned clockwise to plunge. Unlike the two previous models, this adjuster cannot be brought into use in conjunction with plunge mode winding mechanisms, because there aren't any!

This means that - when used freehand - the operator has a choice of plunging freehand and locking with the plunge-lock lever, plunging to a pre-determined depth (using the turret and depth stop) then locking, or winding the router down to the desired depth by screwing the fine adjuster clockwise. Once you reach the required depth, use the plunge lock lever as "belt and braces."

If you wish to change the bit after using the fine adjuster, you are still able to fully plunge the router to do so, as the adjuster only restricts movement upwards (when used freehand).

The plunge spring is not accessible from the top, but is held in place by an ingenious circlip stack - the first holding the "T"-bar and the second - beneath it - holding the spring in place.

It's a little early to start describing dismantling procedures, although I've heard from Chris Nicholls (also in the UK) that the plunge spring cannot be removed on this model, as it renders the winding mechanism inoperative. Thanks for the info, Chris!

So, finally, here's the full range, showing - from left to right - the TRA001, the MOF001 and the JOF001.

Numbered photographs of TRB001 and logo
courtesy of Triton Workshop Systems

©Ray Girling, 2000 - 2026