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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: javeryh on January 09, 2006, 04:57:27 pm

Title: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: javeryh on January 09, 2006, 04:57:27 pm

I am in the process of installing a tornado spinner on my CP but the hole that is already punched for it is only 1/4" in diameter - the same as the spinner shaft.  It fits in there but it is pretty snug and doesn't allow for maximum spinnage (word?).  I want to expand the hole by just a little bit and I am wondering the best way to go about doing so.  I have a 3/8" drill bit made specifically for metal that I am thinking about using unless anyone has any other suggestions.

Thanks!

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: Major Rock Hardy on January 09, 2006, 05:08:00 pm

depends on how much 'just a little bit' is...  You could get a 5/16 or 9/32 possibly.  Or get a needle file and go to work.

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: nostrebor on January 09, 2006, 05:21:07 pm

If you want a 3/8" hole, the drill bit will work fine. If you don't want a 3/8" hole, a round  metal file would be great for just clearancing the hole a bit, or a drill bit of a different, more suitable diameter will fix it up.

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: javeryh on January 09, 2006, 05:32:58 pm

I think 3/8" will be OK - I have the knob with the skirt so the hole won't be visible.  I'm also planning on covering the entire CP with vinyl.  Is there any other reason this might not be what I want to do?  I only get one shot at this I guess without having to get another CP...

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: Zakk on January 09, 2006, 07:58:22 pm

borrow a step bit from someone.

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: javeryh on January 10, 2006, 02:13:18 pm

I used the 3/8" metal cutting drill bit and it went through like butter.  I had to file down the edges a bit though because it left them a little raised and I need a flat surface.  I think I can finally finish my last CP this week!

Title: Re: Enlarging a hole in a metal CP?
Post by: PetitMorte on January 10, 2006, 02:53:32 pm

For something like this, I would use a T-Reamer (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002U8BZO/ref=nosim/104-4939156-5851149?n=228013). 
(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002U8BZO.01-A3TQ3OIW6NTQKL._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg)

This particular tool is designed for making holes larger, and can be used on a wide variety of materials.  It's very precise, and easy to use.  In putting together my cab, I found many uses for it.