3612 - Router MAKITA - Free user manual and instructions

Type	Corded plunge router
Power consumption	1,650 W
No-load speed	22,000 rpm
Maximum collet	12 mm (1/2")
Available collets	6 / 8 / 10 / 12 mm
Max plunge depth	60 mm
Base diameter	160 mm
Net weight	5.8 kg
Power supply	230 V - 50 Hz

Frequently Asked Questions - 3612 MAKITA

What is the power of the Makita 3612 motor?

The Makita 3612 is equipped with a 1,650 W motor, providing enough torque for milling solid wood, MDF, and chipboard. The 3612C version increases this power to 1,850 W with electronic regulation.

What is the rotation speed of the Makita 3612?

The no-load speed is fixed at 22,000 rpm. If you need a variable range, the 3612C version offers from 9,000 to 23,000 rpm with constant speed maintenance under load.

What collet diameters does the Makita 3612 accept?

The router accepts collets of 6, 8, 10, and 12 mm. The maximum collet diameter is 12 mm (1/2"). Be sure to choose the collet that matches the shank diameter of your bit.

What is the maximum plunge depth?

The maximum plunge depth is 60 mm. This value covers the vast majority of common tasks: grooves, rabbets, contouring, and shallow mortises.

How do you change the bit on the Makita 3612?

First, unplug the tool. Engage the spindle lock button to immobilize the shaft, then unscrew the collet nut with the provided wrench. Insert the new bit at least three-quarters of the useful length of the collet before tightening firmly.

How do you adjust the cutting depth?

Place the base on the work surface with the bit in contact, then lock the reference position on the plunge column. Then adjust the depth stop to the desired value (up to 60 mm) and lock it. Always perform a test on scrap before working on the final piece.

What is the difference between the Makita 3612 and the 3612C?

The 3612C adds electronic speed regulation (9,000 to 23,000 rpm), increased power to 1,850 W, and automatic speed maintenance under load. The basic 3612 operates at a fixed speed (22,000 rpm) with 1,650 W, without electronic control.

Can the Makita 3612 be mounted on a router table?

Yes, the Makita 3612 is compatible with standard router tables. The round base of 160 mm diameter allows for attachment to most table tops. Specific guides and adapters are available as Makita accessories (ref. 122256-6).

What should be done in case of excessive vibrations or unexpected stops?

Check that the bit is properly tightened and suitable for the material. Reduce the cutting depth and advance at a steady speed. If the tool heats up or stops frequently, the carbon brushes may be worn: inspect them and replace if necessary.

How much does the Makita 3612 weigh?

The Makita 3612 weighs 5.8 kg. This weight, suitable for its power category, allows for good control in portable work while remaining usable on a table for precision operations.

What accessories are available for the Makita 3612?

The main compatible accessories include:

• Parallel guide (ref. 122256-6)
• Collets 6, 8, 10, and 12 mm
• Bits from the Makita range (shank 6 to 12 mm)
• Replacement carbon brushes

These parts are available at authorized Makita dealers.

How do you connect a dust extraction system to the Makita 3612?

The 3612 has a dust port compatible with standard vacuum hoses. Connect your shop vacuum hose directly to this port to capture chips at the source and improve visibility of the cut line.

USER MANUAL 3612 MAKITA

MANUEL D'INSTRUCTION

Line drawing of a mechanical device with no visible text or symbols

003647

DOUBLE INSULATION

DOUBLE ISOLATION

DOBLE AISLAMIENTO

⚠ WARNING:

For your personal safety, READ and UNDERSTAND before using.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

⚠ AVERTISSEMENT:

• Due to our continuing programme of research and development, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice.
  • Note: Specifications may differ from country to country.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

GEA001-3

WARNING:

Read all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. The term “power tool” in all of the warnings listed below refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Work area safety

1. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered and dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

Electrical safety

1. Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.

2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.

3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.

4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
5. When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.

Personal safety

1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
2. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
3. Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before plugging in. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or plugging in power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves

away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

1. If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of these devices can reduce dust-related hazards.

Power tool use and care

1. Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
2. Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
4. Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
5. Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tools operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
7. Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions and in the manner intended for the particular type of power tool, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

Service

1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
2. Follow instruction for lubricating and changing accessories.
3. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.

GEB018-1

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

DO NOT let comfort or familiarity with product (gained from repeated use) replace strict adherence to router safety rules. If you use this tool unsafely or incorrectly, you can suffer serious personal injury.

1. Hold power tools by insulated gripping surfaces when performing an operation where the cutting tool may contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact with a "live" wire will make exposed metal parts of the tool "live" and shock the operator.
2. Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding the work by hand or against your body leaves it unstable and may lead to loss of control.
3. Wear hearing protection during extended period of operation.
4. Handle the bits very carefully.
5. Check the bit carefully for cracks or damage before operation. Replace cracked or damaged bit immediately.
6. Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove all nails from the workpiece before operation.
7. Hold the tool firmly with both hands.
8. Keep hands away from rotating parts.
9. Make sure the bit is not contacting the workpiece before the switch is turned on.
10. Before using the tool on an actual workpiece, let it run for a while. Watch for vibration or wobbling that could indicate improperly installed bit.
11. Be careful of the bit rotating direction and the feed direction.
12. Do not leave the tool running. Operate the tool only when hand-held.
13. Always switch off and wait for the bit to come to a complete stop before removing the tool from workpiece.
14. Do not touch the bit immediately after operation; it may be extremely hot and could burn your skin.
15. Do not smear the tool base carelessly with thinner, gasoline, oil or the like. They may cause cracks in the tool base.
16. Draw attention to the need to use cutters of the correct shank diameter and which are suitable for the speed of the tool.
17. Some material contains chemicals which may be toxic. Take caution to prevent dust inhalation and skin contact. Follow material supplier safety data.
18. Always use the correct dust mask/respirator for the material and application you are working with.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING:

MISUSE or failure to follow the safety rules stated in this instruction manual may cause serious personal injury.

SYMBOLS

USD201-2

The followings show the symbols used for tool.

V....volts

A ......amperes

Hz......hertz

\~ ......alternating current

n_0 ......no load speed

☐ Class II Construction

.../min......revolutions or reciprocation per minute

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

CAUTION:

- Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged before adjusting or checking function on the tool.

Adjusting the depth of cut

1 2 3 4 003652

1. Stopper pole
2. Fast-feed button
3. Adjusting hex bolt
4. Stopper block

Place the tool on a flat surface. Loosen the lock lever and lower the tool body until the bit just touches the flat surface. Press the lock lever down to lock the tool body.

Now lower the stopper pole until it makes contact with the adjusting hex bolt. The stopper pole can be moved rapidly by depressing the fast-feed button. While pressing the fast-feed button, raise the stopper pole until the desired depth of cut is obtained. The depth of cut is equal to the distance between the stopper pole and the adjusting hex bolt. Stopper pole travel can be checked with the scale (1 mm or 1/16" per graduation) on the tool body. Minute depth adjustments can be obtained by turning the stopper pole (1.5 mm or about 1/16" per turn).

Now, your predetermined depth of cut can be obtained by loosening the lock lever and then lowering the tool body until the stopper pole makes contact with the adjusting hex bolt.

By turning the knob, the upper limit of the tool body can be adjusted. When the tip of the bit is retracted more than required in relation to the base plate surface, turn the knob to lower the upper limit.

Line drawing of a washing machine with a labeled component (no text or symbols present)

1. Knob

CAUTION:

• Since excessive cutting may cause overload of the motor or difficulty in controlling the tool, the depth of cut should not be more than 20 mm (13/16") at a pass when cutting grooves. When you wish to cut grooves more than 20 mm (13/16") deep, make several passes with progressively deeper bit settings.
• Do not lower the knob too low. The bit will protrude dangerously.

Stopper block

003657 1 2 3 4

1. Stopper pole
2. Hex bolt
3. Hex nut
4. Stopper block

The stopper block has three adjusting hex bolts which raise or lower 0.8 mm (1/32") per turn. You can easily obtain three different depths of cut using these adjusting hex bolts without readjusting the stopper pole.

Adjust the lowest hex bolt to obtain the deepest depth of cut, following the method of “Adjusting depth of cut”. Adjust the two remaining hex bolts to obtain shallower depths of cut. The differences in height of these hex bolts are equal to the differences in depths of cut.

To adjust the hex bolts, first loosen the hex nuts on the hex bolts with the wrench and then turn the hex bolts. After obtaining the desired position, tighten the hex nuts while holding the hex bolts in that desired position. The stopper block is also convenient for making three passes with progressively deeper bit settings when cutting deep grooves.

Switch action

003660 ON I OFF O 1

1. Switch lever

CAUTION:

• Before plugging in the tool, always check to see that the tool is switched off.
• Switch can be locked in "ON" position for ease of operator comfort during extended use. Apply caution when locking tool in "ON" position and maintain firm grasp on tool.
• Make sure that the shaft lock is released before the switch is turned on.
• Hold the tool firmly when turning off the tool, to overcome the reaction.

To start the tool, move the switch lever to the I (ON) position. To stop the tool, move the switch lever to the O (OFF) position.

Electric brake

This tool is equipped with an electric brake. If the tool consistently fails to quickly stop after switch lever moving to the O (OFF) position, have tool serviced at a Makita service center.

Speed adjusting dial

For model 3612C only

1 003802

1. Speed adjusting dial

The tool speed can be changed by turning the speed adjusting dial to a given number setting from 1 to 5.

Higher speed is obtained when the dial is turned in the direction of number 5. And lower speed is obtained when it is turned in the direction of number 1.

This allows the ideal speed to be selected for optimum material processing, i.e. the speed can be correctly adjusted to suit the material and bit diameter.

Refer to the table for the relationship between the number settings on the dial and the approximate tool speed.

003667

Number	RPM
1	9,000
2	12,000
3	15,000
4	19,000
5	23,000

CAUTION:

• If the tool is operated continuously at low speeds for a long time, the motor will get overloaded, resulting in tool malfunction.
• The speed adjusting dial can be turned only as far as 5 and back to 1. Do not force it past 5 or 1, or the speed adjusting function may no longer work.

ASSEMBLY

CAUTION:

• Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged before carrying out any work on the tool.

Installing or removing the bit

CAUTION:

• Install the bit securely. Always use only the wrench provided with the tool. A loose or overtightened bit can be dangerous.
• Do not tighten the collet nut without inserting a bit or install small shank bits without using a collet sleeve. Either can lead to breakage of the collet cone.

003670 1 2 3

1. Wrench
2. Shaft lock
3. Lock lever

Insert the bit all the way into the collet cone. Press the shaft lock to keep the shaft stationary and use the wrench to tighten the collet nut securely. When using router bits with smaller shank diameter, first insert the appropriate collet sleeve into the collet cone, then install the bit as described above.

To remove the bit, follow the installation procedure in reverse.

OPERATION

CAUTION:

• Before operation, always make sure that the tool body automatically rises to the upper limit and the bit does not protrude from the tool base when the lock lever is loosened.
• Before operation, always make sure that the chip deflector is installed properly.

003803 1

1. Chip deflector

Set the tool base on the workpiece to be cut without the bit making any contact. Then turn the tool on and wait until the bit attains full speed. Lower the tool body and move the tool forward over the workpiece surface, keeping the tool base flush and advancing smoothly until the cutting is complete.

When doing edge cutting, the workpiece surface should be on the left side of the bit in the feed direction.

001984

1 2 3 4 2 4

1. Workpiece
2. Bit revolving direction
3. View from the top of the tool
4. Feed direction

NOTE:

• Moving the tool forward too fast may cause a poor quality of cut, or damage to the bit or motor. Moving the tool forward too slowly may burn and mar the cut. The proper feed rate will depend on the bit size, the kind of workpiece and depth of cut. Before beginning the cut on the actual workpiece, it is advisable to make a sample cut on a piece of scrap lumber. This will show exactly how the cut will look as well as enable you to check dimensions.
• When using the straight guide or the trimmer guide, be sure to install it on the right side in the feed direction. This will help to keep it flush with the side of the workpiece.

001985

1 2 3 4

1. Feed direction
2. Bit revolving direction
3. Workpiece
4. Straight guide

Straight guide (optional accessory)

Line drawing of hands operating a sewing machine with a tool, no text or symbols present

The straight guide is effectively used for straight cuts when chamfering or grooving.

Install the straight guide on the guide holder with the wing bolt (B). Insert the guide holder into the holes in the tool base and tighten the wing bolt (A). To adjust the distance between the bit and the straight guide, loosen the wing bolt (B) and turn the fine adjusting screw (1.5 mm or about 1/16" per turn). At the desired distance, tighten the wing bolt (B) to secure the straight guide in place.

003683

Technical diagram of a mechanical assembly with numbered components for identification

1. Wing bolt (A)
2. Guide holder
3. Fine adjusting screw
4. Wing bolt (B)
5. Straight guide

Wider straight guide of desired dimensions may be made by using the convenient holes in the guide to bolt on extra pieces of wood.

003684 1 2 55 mm (2-3/16") 3 55 mm (2-3/16")

1. More than 15mm (5/8")

2. Straight guide

3. Wood

When using a large diameter bit, attach pieces of wood to the straight guide which have a thickness of more than 15 mm (5/8") to prevent the bit from striking the straight guide.

When cutting, move the tool with the straight guide flush with the side of the workpiece.

Templet guide (optional accessory)

Line drawing of hands operating a mechanical device with no visible text or symbols

The templet guide provides a sleeve through which the bit passes, allowing use of the tool with templet patterns. To install the templet guide, loosen the screws on the tool base, insert the templet guide and then tighten the screws.

003692 1 2 3

1. Templet guide
2. Screw
3. Base plate

Secure the templet to the workpiece. Place the tool on the templet and move the tool with the templet guide sliding along the side of the templet.

003695 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

1. Bit
2. Base
3. Templet
4. Workpiece
5. Distance (X)
6. Outside diameter of the tem-plet guide
7. Templet guide

NOTE:

- The workpiece will be cut a slightly different size from the templet. Allow for the distance (X) between the bit and the outside of the templet guide. The distance (X) can be calculated by using the following equation:

Distance (X) = (outside diameter of the templet guide - bit diameter) / 2

Trimmer guide (optional accessory)

Illustration of a hand operating a mechanical device with a rotating base and directional arrow (no text or symbols)

Trimming, curved cuts in veneers for furniture and the like can be done easily with the trimmer guide. The guide roller rides the curve and assures a fine cut.

Install the trimmer guide on the guide holder with the wing bolt (B). Insert the guide holder into the holes in the tool base and tighten the wing bolt (A). To adjust the distance between the bit and the trimmer guide, loosen the wing bolt (B) and turn the fine adjusting screw (1.5 mm or 1/16" per turn). When adjusting the guide roller up or down, loosen the wing bolt (C). After adjusting, tighten all the wing bolts securely.

003700 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

1. Wing bolt (A)
2. Guide holder
3. Fine adjusting screw
4. Wing bolt (B)
5. Wing bolt (C)
6. Trimmer guide
7. Guide roller

When cutting, move the tool with the guide roller riding the side of the workpiece.

003701 1 2 3

1. Bit
2. Guide roller
3. Workpiece

MAINTENANCE

CAUTION:

- Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged before attempting to perform inspection or maintenance.

Replacing carbon brushes

001145 1

1. Limit mark

Remove and check the carbon brushes regularly. Replace when they wear down to the limit mark. Keep the carbon brushes clean and free to slip in the holders. Both carbon brushes should be replaced at the same time. Use only identical carbon brushes.

Use a screwdriver to remove the brush holder caps. Take out the worn carbon brushes, insert the new ones and secure the brush holder caps.

003702 1 2 3

1. Brush holder cap
2. Knob
3. Screwdriver

NOTE:

- When replacing carbon brush located on the same side as the knob, remove the knob first before unscrewing the brush holder cap.

CAUTION:

- Be sure to re-install the knob after inserting new carbon brush.

After replacing brushes, plug in the tool and break in brushes by running tool with no load for about 10 minutes. Then check the tool while running and electric brake operation when releasing the switch trigger. If electric brake is not working well, ask your local Makita service center for repair.

To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, any other maintenance or adjustment should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers, always using Makita replacement parts.

ACCESSORIES

CAUTION:

- These accessories or attachments are recommended for use with your Makita tool specified in this manual. The use of any other accessories or

attachments might present a risk of injury to persons. Only use accessory or attachment for its stated purpose.

If you need any assistance for more details regarding these accessories, ask your local Makita Service Center.

• Edge forming bits
• Laminate trimming bits
• Straight guide
• Trimmer guide
• Guide holder
• Templet guides
• Templet guide adapter
• Lock nut
  • Collet sleeve 3/8", 1/4"
• Wrench 8
• Wrench 24

• Straight & groove forming bits

EN0006-1

MAKITA LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY

Warranty Policy

Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. It is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. If inspection shows the trouble is caused by defective workmanship or material, Makita will repair (or at our option, replace) without charge.

This Warranty does not apply where:

• repairs have been made or attempted by others:
- repairs are required because of normal wear and tear:
- the tool has been abused, misused or improperly maintained:
• alterations have been made to the tool.

IN NO EVENT SHALL MAKITA BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FROM THE SALE OR USE OF THE PRODUCT. THIS DISCLAIMER APPLIES BOTH DURING AND AFTER THE TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.

MAKITA DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF "MERCHANTABILITY" AND "FITNESS FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE," AFTER THE ONE YEAR TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. Some states do not allow limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.

FRANÇAIS SPÉCIFICATIONS

Line drawing of a sewing machine needle stitching with hands operating it (no text or symbols)

Line drawing of hands operating a sewing machine (no text or symbols)

Illustration of a mechanical device with hands operating it, no visible text or symbols

Illustration of hands operating a sewing machine with a tool, no visible text or symbols

Line drawing of hands operating a sewing machine (no text or symbols)

Illustration of a mechanical device with hands operating it, no visible text or symbols

Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:

• lead from lead-based paints,
  • crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
  • arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.

Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.

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