Does Craftsman make a corded router?
Yes. Craftsman makes corded routers, and your Craftsman model 31517561 is a corded electric router design (it uses a power cord rather than a battery) for steady, consistent power during routing.
What “corded router” means (and why people choose it)
A corded router plugs into a standard outlet and delivers continuous power, which is ideal for longer cuts, heavier profiles, and repeated passes in hardwood.
Common benefits of corded routers:
- No battery run time limits or power fade
- Consistent RPM under load for smoother cuts
- Often a better fit for table-mounted routing
- Typically lower cost per hour of use than battery tools
How to confirm your router is corded
On Craftsman routers like model 31517561, you can confirm it is corded by checking these quick identifiers:
- A fixed power cord exiting the motor housing
- No battery slide rails or battery latch
- A standard on/off switch (not a battery-trigger style)
- A rating label listing volts/amps (common on corded tools)
Corded vs cordless router: quick comparison
| Feature | Corded router | Cordless router |
|---|---|---|
| Power delivery | Continuous | Limited by battery |
| Best for | Long sessions, router table | Quick jobs, portability |
| Typical feel | Heavier, steady | Lighter, more mobile |
| Maintenance focus | Cord, switch, brushes | Batteries, charger, electronics |
Why it matters
Choosing corded vs cordless affects cut quality and workflow. If you do extended edge profiling, dadoes, or template routing, corded power helps keep speed consistent and reduces the chance of burning or chatter.
For safe DIY checks and electrical troubleshooting (like a damaged cord or switch), we recommend starting with are diy appliance repairs safe.
Last updated: February 2026
Should I get 1/4 or 1/2 router bits?
For the Craftsman router model 31517561, buy router bits that match the collet size installed on your router. In general, 1/2-inch shank bits cut smoother with less vibration, but you should only choose them if your router has a 1/2-inch collet (or a correct 1/2-inch collet kit).
What to check on your 31517561 first
- Unplug the router.
- Remove the bit (if installed) and look at the collet nut and collet.
- Check for a size marking such as 1/4 or 1/2 on the collet.
- If it is not marked, measure the opening with calipers: 0.250 in (1/4) or 0.500 in (1/2).
- Only use bits with the same shank diameter as the collet.
1/4-inch vs 1/2-inch shank: practical differences
| Item | 1/4-inch shank bits | 1/2-inch shank bits |
|---|---|---|
| Best use | Small profiles, light trimming | Larger profiles, longer bits, heavier cuts |
| Vibration | Higher | Lower |
| Cut quality | Good with shallow passes | Smoother, more stable |
| Typical router fit | Compact and mid-size routers | Mid-size and full-size routers |
How we recommend choosing
- Choose 1/2-inch shank for raised-panel style bits, long pattern bits, and larger roundovers (when your 31517561 is equipped for 1/2-inch).
- Choose 1/4-inch shank for laminate trim, small roundovers, and detail work.
- Take multiple shallow passes; shank size does not replace safe feed rate and depth-of-cut.
Why it matters
The shank is the bit’s “spine.” A thicker shank flexes less, which reduces chatter and helps the router track cleaner, especially in hardwood and with larger cutter profiles.
For general tool and repair safety practices before working on a corded power tool, use are diy appliance repairs safe.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I buy Craftsman replacement parts?
You can buy replacement parts for your Craftsman router model 31517561 through Sears PartsDirect by searching the model number and then matching the part by name and description. Using the exact model number is the most reliable way to get parts that fit and work correctly.
How we recommend finding the right part
- Use the full model number 31517561 from the router nameplate, not a series name.
- Identify the part you need by its description (for example: switch, brush, collet, bearing, cord).
- Compare what you see on the tool to the listing details (shape, mounting holes, electrical ratings, size).
- If multiple versions are listed, match any markings on the old part (stamped numbers, amp rating, dimensions).
- If a part shows limited availability, search by the part description again to confirm you are viewing the correct item for 31517561.
Common Craftsman router parts people replace
These are the most frequently replaced items on routers like the Craftsman 31517561:
| Part type | What it affects | Common symptom |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon brushes | Motor power and starting | Won’t start, cuts out, heavy sparking |
| On/off switch | Power control | No power or intermittent power |
| Power cord/strain relief | Power delivery | Works only when cord is moved |
| Collet/collet nut | Bit holding | Bit slips, poor cut quality |
| Bearings | Smooth rotation | Grinding noise, vibration |
Quick checks before ordering
- Verify the outlet and extension cord are good.
- Inspect the cord for cuts and the strain relief for looseness.
- Check brush wear (short brushes cause arcing and shutdowns).
- If you suspect an electrical issue, test components with a meter before replacing parts.
Why it matters
Routers run at very high RPM; the correct replacement part helps prevent overheating, poor performance, and premature wear to the motor and bearings. For safe, accurate electrical testing, use how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.
Last updated: February 2026
