Pin Holes and Tubing, Drill bits

[Runner]

I agree with the people recommending hole saws. When I first heard about that method, I didn't think it would work, but now, I'm a believer. So far, I've done up to about 1 1/8 inch holes with a hole saw in the drill press, and they work great. Just be sure and use plenty of oil

For thinner metal, say, up to 1/4 inch and smaller holes, up to about 3/4 diameter, you can also get away with using a step drill.

 

[J_J]

Try this place.

MetKit Corp - Home Page
Select Catalog of parts
Bearings pins and tubing

 

[Baby Grand]

Great info - thanks to all who have contributed. I am trying to adapt a set of Sundowner forks to my pin-on LA724 FEL and thought I had painted myself into a corner. Now I see a way out and where to get the stuff to do it. You guys are the best!
-Jim

 

[sandman2234]

Magnetic drills can be purchased used. Mine cost me $75 from a pawn shop because the motor was loose and somebody put a wedge of wood in it to tighten it up (and making it drill really crooked). A friend needed to borrow it, so he tightened it up before using it and it now works great. (That is a +1 for loaning tools to friends and neighbors)
David from jax

 

[radioman]

I used silver and deming bits with oil bath from HF to drill my large holes with a drill press. Its not the bext solution, but it works for me. cheap too.

 

[grsthegreat]

personally, i have a cnc plasma machine that would do it no problem, but before i had this, i used a simple hole saw. just expect to burn one up per hole, there cheap to buy.

i drilled thru 1/2" plate without an issue.

 

[racerboy832]

Where in CT are you located? If you are close to the Bethel area let me know if I can help out.

 

[jmanatee2]

Where in CT are you located? If you are close to the Bethel area let me know if I can help out.

I am near storrs.... I Appreciate the offer but I am someone that doesn't like to borrow stuff, if I need it I will buy it so I have it in the future.

I think I am going to buy a MT2 to 3/4" Weldon adapter and get a couple Annular cutters (1" and 1.25") and try using my drill press.

Everything I have read about Annular cutters is positive. Drill presses can cut bigger holes at faster speeds then twist bits. They last a LOOONG time. etc...

 

[racerboy832]

I have a fabricator downstairs, I can usually get just about anything done for Coffee and Pizza if it's big project.

 

[jmanatee2]

I have a fabricator downstairs, I can usually get just about anything done for Coffee and Pizza if it's big project.

I wish I had a fabricator downstairs...