Craftsman 315174440 router Parts

To replace a router bit on your Craftsman 315174440 router, we loosen the collet nut, remove the old bit, insert the new bit to the correct depth, then tighten the collet securely. Always unplug the router first so the bit cannot start unexpectedly.

Steps to change the bit (collet-style router)

• Unplug the router and remove it from the workpiece or router table.
• Press the spindle lock (if your router has one) or hold the shaft with the correct wrench.
• Turn the collet nut counterclockwise until the bit releases.
• Remove the old bit; clean dust from the collet and nut.
• Insert the new bit shank fully, then pull it back out about 1/16 to 1/8 inch so it is not bottomed out.
• Tighten the collet nut clockwise until the bit is firmly clamped.

Correct bit depth and tightening

Most Craftsman routers clamp best when the bit is not bottomed out in the collet. Seating the bit fully and backing it out slightly helps the collet grip evenly and reduces the chance of the bit slipping.

What you do	Why it helps
Back the bit out slightly after inserting	Prevents bottoming out; improves clamping force
Clean the collet before tightening	Reduces wobble and slipping
Tighten firmly (not over-forced)	Keeps the bit secure without damaging threads

Quick safety checks before you power on

• Confirm the bit clears the base opening and any router table insert.
• Spin the bit by hand to verify it does not rub.
• Make sure the collet nut is fully engaged on the collet threads.
• Use the correct shank size (commonly 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch) for your collet.

Why it matters

A properly installed router bit cuts cleaner and runs truer. Correct collet tightening and bit depth help prevent chatter, burning, and bit slippage, which protects your workpiece and your router.

For general DIY safety practices before working on power tools, review are diy appliance repairs safe.

Last updated: February 2026

To remove a router bit on a Craftsman 315174440 router, unplug the tool, lock the spindle (or hold the shaft) and use the correct wrenches to loosen the collet nut counterclockwise; once loose, the bit slides out of the collet.

Step-by-step: removing the bit safely

• Unplug the router (do not rely on the switch).
• Remove the base or open access as needed so you can reach the collet nut.
• Engage the spindle lock button if your router has one; if not, hold the shaft with the second wrench.
• Put one wrench on the spindle/shaft flats and the other on the collet nut.
• Turn the collet nut counterclockwise to break it loose.
• Keep loosening until the bit releases; pull the bit straight out.

If the bit is stuck in the collet

A bit can “hang up” from resin buildup or because the collet is gripping the shank.

• Loosen the collet nut a few turns (do not remove it).
• Tap the wrench lightly to help the collet relax its grip.
• Remove the bit; wipe the shank clean.
• If you see pitch or corrosion, clean the collet and nut, then reinstall.

Correct reinstallation (prevents future sticking)

What to do	What to avoid	Why
Insert the bit shank fully, then pull it back out about 1/16 to 1/8 inch before tightening	Bottoming the bit out in the collet	Helps the collet clamp evenly
Tighten firmly with the proper wrenches	Overtightening	Reduces collet wear and sticking
Use clean, straight-shank bits	Clamping on a dirty or nicked shank	Improves grip and accuracy

Why it matters

A properly released and tightened collet keeps the bit centered, reduces vibration, and helps prevent bit slippage or chatter during routing.

For basic electrical checks if the router will not run after reassembly, use our guide: how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.

Last updated: February 2026

A Sears Craftsman router (like model 315174440) is a handheld, corded power tool used to shape wood by spinning a router bit at high speed. We use it for edging, trimming, cutting grooves (dados), and making decorative profiles in woodworking projects.

What it’s used for

Common jobs a Craftsman router handles well include:

• Rounding over or beveling edges on boards
• Cutting grooves, rabbets, and dadoes for joinery
• Flush-trimming laminate or wood to a template
• Making decorative edge profiles with specialty bits
• Cutting hinge mortises or recesses with a guide

Key parts and features you’ll see on most routers

Even without model-specific documentation, most Craftsman routers share these core components:

• Motor housing (drives the bit)
• Collet and collet nut (clamps the router bit shank)
• Base (fixed or plunge style; supports the tool on the work)
• Depth adjustment (sets how deep the bit cuts)
• On/off switch (sometimes with a lock)
• Optional guides (edge guide, template guide, dust collection)

Quick router types comparison

Router type	Best for	What to expect
Fixed-base	Edge profiles, consistent depth cuts	Simple depth setting, stable feel
Plunge-base	Grooves, mortises, starting cuts in the middle	Spring plunge action, depth stop turret
Trim/palm	Light trimming, laminate work	Smaller size, less power

Why it matters

Choosing the right router setup (bit type, base style, and depth setting) directly affects cut quality and safety. A properly set collet and correct feed direction help prevent chatter, burning, and kickback.

Safety and setup essentials

Before using your Craftsman router:

• Unplug the router before changing bits or adjusting depth
• Insert the bit shank fully, then pull it back slightly before tightening
• Tighten the collet firmly; recheck after the first few seconds of use
• Make shallow passes instead of one deep cut
• Use eye and hearing protection; secure the workpiece

For general DIY safety practices, see are diy appliance repairs safe.

Last updated: February 2026

Craftsman has offered router tables and router-table accessories over the years, but router tables are not model-specific to the Craftsman 315174440. The right choice depends on matching the table’s insert plate (or mounting system) to your router’s base and screw pattern.

How to choose a router table that fits a Craftsman 315174440

Use these checks to confirm compatibility before you buy:

• Insert plate compatibility: The plate must support your router’s screw-hole pattern or accept a universal mounting kit.
• Base clearance: The router base and motor housing must clear the plate opening and any lift mechanism.
• Bit access and adjustment: Make sure you can safely change bits and adjust height without removing the router constantly.
• Switch and power control: A large, easy-to-reach switch improves safety when the router is mounted under a table.
• Dust collection: A fence port (and optional cabinet port) helps keep the cut line visible and reduces cleanup.

Features that matter most (quick comparison)

Router table feature	What it does	Why it matters
Fence	Guides straight cuts	Improves accuracy and repeatability
Insert plate or lift	Mounts the router	Keeps the router stable and level
Miter slot	Supports jigs	Helps with controlled, repeat cuts
Dust collection	Captures chips	Improves visibility and safety

Why it matters

A properly matched router table makes your Craftsman router more stable for edge profiles, rabbets, and repeatable cuts. Fit is the priority; a poor match can cause vibration, misalignment, or unsafe mounting.

Best next step for your model

Confirm the exact mounting pattern and base dimensions on your Craftsman 315174440, then shop by those measurements. If you need help identifying the model number format used for parts lookups, use how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts).

Last updated: February 2026