Measuring holes

[mendo]

Anyone know a method for measuring to drill a hole exactly where you want it? I gotta drill new holes for my steering pump and want to make sure I get the pilot holes dead center of the pump bracket holes. I've been messing around with a compass but I don't seem to be getting anywhere. Seems each time I drill holes ends up as an afternoon of me and a die grinder to get the thing mounted :shaking: Thanks for your ideas

[SeaBass44]

tape measure works wonders:D

you need transfer screws

http://www.nolansupply.com/bysubcategory.asp?category=Hand+Tools&supercategory=Punches+%2D+Transfer&subcategory=Heimann+Punches+%2D+7+Piece+Standard+T ransfer+Screw+Sets%26nbsp%3B&type=False&specs=True

or if you have a set of transfer punches and an old bracket or the pump you might be able to drill one hole, mount the stell to pump & use the transfer punches to mark the remaining holes

[4CrawlR]

If you don't have the transfer screw or punch, you can find a drill bit that jut fits the hole in the pump. Then with the pump on the bracket, use a hand drill to turn the bit in the hole a few times to leave a small dimple in the center where the tip was spinning. Then you can center punch that hole and use a small bit to start it.

[mendo]

Never heard of a transfer punch or screw but thanks for the link SeaBass, that's just what I need! I'm liking the drill bit idea too... money wise.
Thanks guys

[SeaBass44]

Never heard of a transfer punch or screw but thanks for the link SeaBass, that's just what I need! I'm liking the drill bit idea too... money wise.
Thanks guys

you can get a set of transfer punches on ebay for $10-20, real handy
the screws are threaded punches, real slick
but metric cost a bit.

I planed on getting 1 size for 22r block to make up a pass side alt bracket for alt welder kits, but have never found the time:homer:

[OOP'S]

If you have a Harbor Freight near you you can pick up a set of transfer punches. Do not use them as a center punch, just a marking punch then use a center punch. Also make sure the the table on your drill press is square to the bit. Take your time in making your layout.

[LT1SCOUT]

Just about anytime you drill a hole, you will get drill wander. Below are some method to help keep it to a minimum.

You can drill a pilot hole first. Basically if you need a 1/2" holes somewhere, slowly set your way up to it.... 1/8" - 3/8" - 1/2".

Learn to sharpen your drill bits. Matching the angle and shape of each side of the cutting surface of the bit, will lessen drill wander. Also drill bits with "split points" will help prevent drill wander. If your not very good at sharpening drill bits - then buy a Drill Doctor (www.drilldoctor.com) .

Also making a drill jig will also help. Thats something that you drill through with the correct location already drilled in it which is tack welded or clamped to your part.

As for marking location - they make metal scribes which scratch the surface of metal, hence it won't rub off like a pencil or marker, plus its a narrow line for high accuracy.




dont forget spot drills. a 1/8" bit will still walk on you if you arent careful.

[beartj]

Getting a good center punch mark is very important. I was mounting some tabs for a buddy and was having a hell of a time keeping the drill from wandering. The punch he handed me to use was sharpened like a pencil sharpened in a hand-crank pencil sharpener (like in elementary school)---a *long* cone which came to a fine point.

It wouldn't produce a decent dimple for shit. Even when i hit it with a mini sledge. Then my brain kicked on and i realized that I grind my center punches to a rectangular pyramid (~4 flat sides that come to a point) which looks more like the profile of the drill bits tip than a pencil tip.

As you prepare to drill, set your bracket on the drill press table and clamp it in. Bring the spindle down with the drill off and line up the bit with the punch mark. Rotate it with your hand and see if it spins smooth, this will let you make sure your drill center is close to your marked center. When you're ready to drill, turn the drill on and "tap" it down gently a couple times. Look to see if the cut is centered on your mark.

Pretty simple stuff but it all helps to keep everything in it's place and saves a ton of frustration.

[sn0border88]

Do not use them as a center punch, just a marking punch then use a center punch.

Ive had no problems using mine as a center punch, unless its out of position where you cant get a good swing or it dosent leave a good enough mark the first time.

I would guess you know this already, but make sure you are measuring center to center, not outside to center or something.

[rockmup]

Ive had no problems using mine as a center punch, unless its out of position where you cant get a good swing or it dosent leave a good enough mark the first time.

I would guess you know this already, but make sure you are measuring center to center, not outside to center or something.


You can do that, but they won't last as long. They are not as hard as a reg. punch and will flatten out

[sn0border88]

they have lasted over 5 years that I know of, and I wasnt the first owner.

Get a quality set.