i can't get the collet to release the bit, even with the wrench it just won't loosen.

Diagnosis

The seizure of the collet on the Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Router (PSBCR01B) is typically caused by a combination of thermal expansion and "resin locking." During heavy routing, the friction between the bit and the collet generates intense heat. This heat causes the steel collet to expand and then contract tightly around the shank of the bit. If you are using carbide-tipped bits, the microscopic roughness of the shank can act like a mechanical lock when compressed under the high torque of the HP motor. Furthermore, pine resin or sawdust mixed with lubricant can seep into the threads of the collet nut. Once this mixture cures under the heat of operation, it acts as a powerful adhesive, bonding the nut to the collet body. You can confirm this is the issue if the collet nut rotates slightly but the inner collet remains frozen, or if the nut refuses to budge even when the spindle lock is fully engaged. This is most common with 1/4" bits that have been run at maximum RPM for extended periods.

How to Fix It

To break the bond without stripping the nut or damaging the spindle, you need to apply a sudden "shock" force rather than steady pressure. Follow these exact steps:

1. Unplug the router from the power source and remove the battery pack to ensure there is no risk of accidental activation.
2. Firmly engage the spindle lock. On the PSBCR01B, ensure the locking mechanism is fully depressed and the shaft is completely immobilized. If the shaft rotates even a millimeter, you will lose the leverage needed to break the seal.
3. Fit the supplied collet wrench securely onto the flat edges of the collet nut. Ensure the wrench is seated deeply and flush against the nut to prevent slipping.
4. Instead of pulling the wrench slowly, use a rubber mallet or a dead-blow hammer to strike the end of the wrench handle sharply in the counter-clockwise direction. This "impact" method breaks the surface tension of the resin and the mechanical grip of the collet more effectively than steady torque.
5. If the nut moves but the bit remains stuck, leave the nut slightly loose. Use a bench vise to gently grip the shank of the router bit (using a cloth to protect the metal) and rotate the entire router body clockwise to unwind the bit from the collet.

If That Didn't Work

• Chemical Penetration: Apply a high-quality penetrating oil, such as PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench, specifically at the seam where the nut meets the collet. Let it soak for at least 4 to 6 hours. Wipe away excess oil before attempting to loosen again to avoid slipping with the wrench.
• Thermal Shock: Use a can of compressed air (inverted) or a specialized freezing spray to chill the collet nut. The rapid contraction of the outer nut relative to the inner bit can create a microscopic gap, allowing the bit to slide out.
• Mechanical Lever Extension: Slide a hollow metal pipe over the handle of your collet wrench to increase the leverage. Be extremely careful with this method; if you apply too much force without the spindle lock being perfectly engaged, you risk bending the motor shaft.
• Collet Replacement: If the nut finally loosens but the inner collet is permanently deformed or "frozen" to the shaft, the collet assembly is compromised. You will need to replace the collet and nut assembly to ensure the bit is centered and safe to operate.

Heads Up

• Avoid Over-tightening: Never tighten the collet nut with maximum force. Use a "snug plus a quarter turn" approach. Over-tightening is the primary cause of seized collets in the PSBCR01B.
• Clean the Shank: Before inserting a new bit, wipe the shank clean with a lint-free cloth. Any sawdust or resin on the shank will create a tighter, more problematic fit.
• Bit Depth: Ensure the bit is inserted fully into the collet but not "bottomed out" against the base. Leaving a tiny gap (about 1/64") prevents the bit from wedging too tightly against the bottom of the collet.
• Heat Management: If you notice the router body becoming excessively hot during a deep cut, stop and let it cool. Excessive heat ruins the temper of the collet and leads to the seizure issues described above.