What tool do I use to...

[tscarbroughdc]

I know this is probably a stupid question but...

1. What tool do I use to cut 1-2" off of my hurricane hinge?
2. How do I cut a few inches off without messing up my hinge?

[wagondude]

A Dremmel or other rotary tool with a cutoff wheel or an angle grinder with a cutoff wheel would work well. A chop saw with a metal cutting abrasive blade would be the safest option. In a pinch, a hack saw will work. In the absence of any of those options, screw the hinge down to a sacrificial board and use a jig/sabre saw with a fine tooth metal cutting blade to cut it.

[Gage]

With a question like that, I hope you’re not trying to build a teardrop. Meanwhile to the question. Just take a hack saw and cut the d--n thing. Oh, be sure to measure first and draw a line where you want to cut. Once you have made the cut take a small file and debur it .

If this answer offends you then you should use your head and think about it before asking. Chances are you will come up with the answer on your own and not look so stupid.

[tscarbroughdc]

Yep Gage! I'm almost done too! I will have to admit that this is my first time to ever build anything though!

ImageUploadedByTapatalk1386731491.459340.jpg (63.71 KiB) Viewed 640 times

[eamarquardt]

I've heard that there are grinding wheels and cutoff wheels designed for aluminum but I've never seen one or heard of anyone stocking them. Aluminum clogs up wheels causing problems up to and including the wheels exploding.

Here is a site with recommendations for various materials: http://wiki.artisansasylum.com/index.ph ... ting_Chart

[Shadow Catcher]

I use a 4 1/2" right angle grinder with a thin cutoff wheel both from Harbor Freight, the kerf is fine enough and the HF metal cutoff wheels of poor enough quality they don't clog. For straight lines scribe the line into the aluminum and cut outside the line and then grind down to it. PRACTICE first!

[eamarquardt]

I use a 4 1/2" right angle grinder with a thin cutoff wheel both from Harbor Freight, the kerf is fine enough and the HF metal cutoff wheels of poor enough quality they don't clog. For straight lines scribe the line into the aluminum and cut outside the line and then grind down to it. PRACTICE first!

I got a good laugh over the comment that HF wheels are of too low a quality to survive long enough to get clogged up, overheat, and perhaps explode. What would happen if, by some manufacturing fluke, HF sold a quality wheel?

Better, IMHO, to cut aluminum rather than grind it (except with a sanding wheel).

Cheers,

Gus

[les45]

I agree with Gage, simple is best and safest; hacksaw and file. Don't forget to leave some overhang on both sides for water to drip out away from the body. Also consider adding set screws on each end to keep hinge from moving side to side when open:

[aggie79]

I used a miter saw with a carbide tipped blade. I did separate the two halves before I made the cuts.

Instead of measure twice, measure three times and cut once.

[Breytie]

I also cut all my Alu with my miter saw with a carbide tipped multipurpose blade, the same one I use for all the other work. Just make sure both sides of the extrusion is clamped down solidly so nothing moves during or after the cut. Take it calmly and let the blade do the work. After every cut check the blade for any Alu deposits clinging to the teeth. Normally a quick flick with the fingernail will see them off, else a scrape with the pocket knife will do the trick.

I have heard advice about painting some grease or oil on the cut line but found that counter productive , leaving lumps of Alu debris and a general mess with no real improvement of the cut.

I had some success cutting Alu with a good quality thin cut-off disc, but the finish is not nearly the same quality and the discs do clog up, rendering them useless.

I am useless with a hacksaw when trying anything other than hacking something apart, which was the main reason (excuse) for buying the miter saw in the first place.

[grantstew8]

Cut it long and only cut it to size when you are certain. I am picking up my second hing on Friday because I cut the first on too short

..... Evidence
http://youtu.be/_Oee1KOncyc

[Shadow Catcher]

Actually I have not had one of the HF cut off blades self destruct, they just don't last as long as a Delta.

[mary and bob]

Leave the plastic trim piece extra extra long. They definitely shrink. Anyone know if that piece is available?

[Gage]

Anyone know if that piece is available?

Contact Grant at Lil' Bear.

[mary and bob]

Thanks Gage, I did buy the hinge from Grant.