Guide · Tool-port adapters
Router dust hoods: Bosch RA1172AT and hose adapters
What is in Bosch's RA1172AT router dust kit, the routers and fixed bases Bosch lists it for, and the adapters Bosch names for 1-1/4, 1-1/2 and 2-1/2 in hoses.
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Short answer
A handheld router's dust port is usually on a hood or base accessory, not on the router body. Bosch's RA1172AT kit names the exact routers and fixed bases it fits, and Bosch names adapters for 1-1/4, 1-1/2 and 2-1/2-inch hoses.[1] If your router or base is not on that list, the kit is not confirmed for it.
Why routers need a hood
OSHA's woodworking guidance says sanders, routers and shapers in particular produce large amounts of fine dust.[2] A router spins a bit in the open, so the chips and dust go wherever the bit throws them. A dust hood puts a hose port where the debris leaves the cut.
What is in the RA1172AT box
Bosch says the RA1172AT router dust extraction kit includes a fixed-base hood, an edge-forming hood and a VAC002 vacuum hose adapter, plus mounting hardware.[1]
Which routers and bases it fits
Bosch lists the RA1172AT for the 1617, 1617EVS, 1618 and 1618EVS routers and the RA1161, RA1162, RA1164 and RA1165 fixed bases.[1] That list stops there. It names no plunge base and no other Bosch router, so don't assume it fits one.
| Kit part | What Bosch lists | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Hoods | fixed-base hood, edge-forming hood | [1] |
| Routers | 1617, 1617EVS, 1618, 1618EVS | [1] |
| Fixed bases | RA1161, RA1162, RA1164, RA1165 | [1] |
| Adapter in the box | VAC002 | [1] |
Which adapter for your hose
Bosch's RA1172AT page names three adapters by hose size:[1]
| Your hose | Adapter Bosch names |
|---|---|
| 1-1/4 in | VAC002 or VAC024 |
| 1-1/2 in | VAC002 or VAC024 |
| 2-1/2 in | VAC020 |
The VAC002 already comes in the kit. The same VAC002 adapter ships with Bosch's ROS20VSC sander, which Bosch also lists for 1-1/4 or 1-1/2-inch hose with VAC002 or VAC024.[3] If you own both tools, one hose and adapter can serve both. The sander guide has that route.
The hood's own port
Bosch does not state the hood's port diameter on the RA1172AT page.[1] You may read "35 mm" elsewhere, but Bosch does not give that figure for this hood, so neither do we. Use one of the adapters Bosch names, or measure the port before trying anything else.
Router tables
Router tables and table fences have their own ports and their own makers' instructions. This page covers handheld routers only.
The adapter pick
The VAC024 is one of the two adapters Bosch names for 1-1/4 and 1-1/2-inch hoses on this kit.
Picks that fit1 product
Choose the single VAC024 adapter only for a 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 in hose on an RA1172AT kit, for example as a second adapter besides the VAC002 in the box.
More on choosing
For a 2-1/2 in hose, Bosch names the VAC020, a different part. On Amazon, check that 'Ships from / Sold by' shows Amazon.com or Bosch.
Bosch's own adapter for its sanders and router kit
Bosch VAC024 vacuum hose adapter with swivel for 1‑1/4 in and 1‑1/2 in hoses
Next
Questions
How do I hook a shop vac to my Bosch router?
For the routers and fixed bases Bosch lists, use the RA1172AT kit: it includes two hoods and a VAC002 adapter. Bosch names VAC002 or VAC024 for 1-1/4 and 1-1/2-inch hoses and VAC020 for 2-1/2-inch hoses.[1]
Does the RA1172AT fit a plunge base?
Bosch lists it for the 1617, 1617EVS, 1618 and 1618EVS routers and the RA1161, RA1162, RA1164 and RA1165 fixed bases. No plunge base is on that list.[1]
Which Bosch adapter fits a 2-1/2-inch hose?
Bosch names the VAC020 for 2-1/2-inch hoses on the RA1172AT page.[1]
Is the dust hood port 35 mm?
Bosch doesn't state the hood's port diameter on the RA1172AT page. Measure it, or use one of the adapters Bosch names.[1]