What Tool or Trick Works for This?

[Toytaco2]

Hello All, I haven't posted in a while but still keep up with the forum. Here's a problem I know we've all run in to from time to time: Today I went to install some replacement stabilizer jacks on my TD frame. I thought the new jacks would have the same bolt hole spacing as my old ones, but they are only agonizingly close to the old ones. So what is a good way to "slot" a hole in one direction? Just reaming the hole to a bigger diameter with the drill only makes a hole that's way to big. I'm sure this is just a stupid question, but, a small round file takes forever in 1/8 inch steel plate, especially when it needs about 1/8 inch of material removed. Besides, you never know if you don't ask. I'm hoping to retire in the next few months, so I guess I'll have plenty of time to file away on the hole if that's the only answer. My preference is to to hit the road with the camper, see some new places and finally make it to a few TD gatherings!

BTW, I'm still amazed at what a great site this is and how often I pick up new and useful tips.

Thanks,
Mike

[darrellbeck]

Hi Mike, What I have done before when I was desperate is to put a round file in a drill. It did what I needed done, I hope it works for you.

Darrell

[rowerwet]

Chuck the round file into a drill, does the same work with little effort.
Works best with a broken section of file just a few inches long.

[lrrowe]

Or a Dremel tool with an abrasive spinning file could be used.

[Aaron Coffee]

This metheod is probably not anywhere near a correct way to slot a hole, but I have been guilty of taking a drill bit the size of the hole and drilling it at an angle back and forth.

[Toytaco2]

The round file chucked in a drill sounds like a great idea. Don't know why I didn't think of that. As always, the guys here can (and will) tell you something you never thought of without making you feel stupid for asking.

Thanks,
Mike

[Dale M.]

Hardware store and welding supplies sell a "burr" or "rotaty file" that can be chucked up in drill and more proper tool than just using a file in drill... You want to look is either drill section or welding supply section for these, they come in many sizes and cutting styles... keep wetted with WD40 to improve cutting and prevent "loading" of burr... Wear SAFETY GLASSES/GOGGLEs



http://www.burrs4less.com/pages/Krazy_Kut_Burrs.html

Dale

[Shadow Catcher]

+2 on the burr, I have a number of them.

[Toytaco2]

Didn't even know these rotary files existed. I guess I never thought about it since I seem to always do things the hard way before I learn a better way. Will go out and find one today.

Thanks again,
Mike

[Treeview]

When I've had to make a long slot out of a hole I try to drill out as much material first. Layout the slot then center punch the hole. Use a 1/8" pilot bit first then go up in size until you drill to the edge of the new slot

Drilling removes material faster.

Tom

[Aaron Coffee]

Forgot about my burr (rotary file) in a die grinder. At first the price seems kind of high(think I paid about $30), but I have had mine for about 15 years and it keeps cutting. I have used it on steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Definitely recomend safety glasses when using a burr, I found out the hard way.

[Toytaco2]

Picked this up on Ebay and it came in the mail today http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-8-HHS-rotary-file-1-4-shank-Cylindrical-shape-Cutting-Surface-1-NEW-/301416885283?hash=item462dd8ac23. Works great. Thanks for all the ideas.