Thanks for that, md8n.
This is a new journey for me.
Can you clarify what you mean by ‘spindle’ in this context?
Are you suggesting something other than a router or are you referring to a generic part of a router (that might be the cylindrical body around which the adapter kit appears to wrap)?
You could start here: M4 Router Be Gone (installed the spindle) - Hardware / Sled - Maslow CNC Forums
In short, instead of using a router, buy an actual spindle and use that instead.
There is some more effort required, probably including doing your own mains voltage wiring up, which requires obvious caution … 
But the rewards are significant.
There are some awesome alternatives from my approach that really facilitate rapid swaps of whatever the M4 is pushing around.
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Excellent. Thank you
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The value of a Makita adapter solution really comes down to accessibility and ease of entry for new users like myself. While spindles are great long-term, my specific use case requires setting up the M4 horizontally and packing it away after each use - making a simple router solution more practical than dealing with additional VFD wiring and configuration.
I’ve actually had my M4 kit since the Kickstarter, but it’s still unassembled largely because of the router “barrier”. The DeWalt is significantly more expensive in my region, while the Makita offers comparable quality, warranty support, and costs about half as much. I’ve already printed the “router-b-gone” PCB mount and searched extensively through the forums for sleeve solutions - a proper Makita adapter would finally let me start my build.
I’d support offering both options - a free/paid STL file for those who can print immediately, plus a molded kit for users who prefer an official solution. This gives everyone a path to get started while maintaining flexibility for future upgrades.
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Chris Bourke wrote:
The value of a Makita adapter solution really comes down to accessibility and
ease of entry for new users like myself. While spindles are great long-term,
my specific use case requires setting up the M4 horizontally and packing it
away after each use - making a simple router solution more practical than
dealing with additional VFD wiring and configuration.
it’s actually far easier than you think. As soon as I get my 4.1 upgrade kit in,
I will build one for my local hackerspace with a spindle and get some pictures
of it.
David Lang
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@bar As I’ve purchased a Makita now in advance, is the STL available somewhere so I can print one?
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I haven’t fully finished testing it so the design might improve a little more. Are you OK with an experimental file? I’d love feedback
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Ah I see, I don’t have any Maslow yet as waiting for the full kit so not sure I will really know how good it is until I have something to fit it in, but I guess that is the element you do know about.
I can certainly see how well it wraps the Makita I have anyway.
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Hi Bar,
I’m okay with an the experimental file, would you mind sending it through to me to test as well please?
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I would love feedback, it might be a couple weeks before I have a chance to jump back into this again.
Makita Clamp(4).stl (909.1 KB)
This version feels like it fits well, but the PLA doesn’t grip the smooth metal of the router very well. I was thinking about playing around with adding something grippy like electrical tape to the inside to help it bind.
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Would this work for Makita DRT50 or it needs to be modified?
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I think it should fit, but the battery is going to end up right where you want to mount the electronics.
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Do you have your own place somewhere on social media where you will be putting this? I would like to see it
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Have you printed this? Lots of overhangs that would need support if printed upright?
Some chamfers would resolve most of those…
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I printed mine at about a 30 degree angle to get the layer lines to not run horizontally across it. It requires supports across the entire bottom, but the result is that the part is much stronger
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