Holes for Cat 1 pins

[Spudland_Dave]

IMO the best & safest way would be to use a set of reamers....
- Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

 

[Iplayfarmer]

I know that for this particular application, the hole saw doesn't work due to the large diameter hole to begin with. For other watchers of this thread, though, I have used a 7/8" hole saw for a few different projects where I'm building a cat. 1 implement, and I've been very pleased with the results. The threaded end of the cat.1 pins fit as snug as any bolt hole. I've been very impressed with the accuracy that a hole saw gives.

 

[J_J]

If using the 7/8 step bit, would not the next lower step be a 3/4, and that would guide the bit through.

 

[studor]

JJ - the step would be 3/4 then 13/16 then 7/8 final so it really does guide it through and I found they act just like a reamer.
IPLAY -- I may have missed it but what kind of holesaw are you using?
regards

 

[J_J]

JJ - the step would be 3/4 then 13/16 then 7/8 final so it really does guide it through and I found they act just like a reamer.
IPLAY -- I may have missed it but what kind of holesaw are you using?
regards

I use different kinds of hole saws, but my favorite is the carbide tipped hole saw. A one inch hole saw, with a 1/4 in guide drill bit runs about $24.00

I also use a Lincoln Pro-Cut-55 plasma cutter to cut out large holes, and then ream out the holes.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

JJ - the step would be 3/4 then 13/16 then 7/8 final so it really does guide it through and I found they act just like a reamer.
IPLAY -- I may have missed it but what kind of holesaw are you using?
regards

I used a "Master Mechanic" 7/8" bimetal hole saw with carbide tips. It's just the cheap brand at the True Value store in town. I've already got an arbor, so the hole saw only cost me about $8

 

[R W]

Try and get hold of a "COLE DRILL" there is one for sale on ebay now.

 

[Eric_Phillips]

J.J. I guess I should never doubt you. I will post some pics later of my antics trying to drill out the holes. It would have worked but my 1/3hp drill press just could turn the bit after it was in about 1/4". I ended up cutting off the rusty loose pins from my back blade and replaced them with shinny new ones. I took the old rusty ones and welded them on to my post driver.

 

[GE222]

Yes, Harbor Freight sells bits cheaper than Sears or others.

There is a difference in the quality between what Harbor Freight sells versus Sears and others.

I have both, and I prefer using a quality twist drill. Harbor Freight bits work, but don't drill quite as nice, and usually take more effort.

Hole saws are fine for rough holes, but I would stick with a twist drill.

 

[3RRL]

Take a 7/8" drill and grind the first inch down to 3/4" in a spin jig or Harrig #1 on a surface grinder.
Make your own custom step drill with a 1" long guide and drill it. In fact, I'd measure the 3/4" hole to be sure it is 3/4" or otherwise ... then grind the drill to about one or two thou under to keep the hole parallel to the plate stock. Use cutting oil to drill.
The new "custom step drill" goes in my tool box with other customs....heck, I might have one already?