Cutting hole in cockpit for GPS

[fjweaver]

I'm fitting a Clipper GPS repeater this weekend & need to cut a hole in the cockpit wall. Apart from a cordless drill I won't be able to use any other power tools.
What's the best way of cutting through the GRP? Is there a hand saw that's good for the job?

thanks
Frank


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[jleaworthy]

When I did this job recently I drilled holes all around the marked-out area and finished with a combination of stanley knife and rasp. Not pretty but effective and well hidden!

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[oldsaltoz]

G'day Frank,

A hacksaw blade and blade holder will do the job, drill the corners and cut out the hole; double tape the face to reduce chipping, a fine (24 tooth) blade should do a reasonable job, not fast tho.

Hope this helps. . . . . .



<hr width=100% size=1>Andavagoodweekend, Old Salt Oz /forums/images/icons/cool.gif

 

[MIKE_MCKIE]

I used a rotary file from b&q in my standard battery drill. Did a good job, and left a very good finish, altho you need to be careful about keeping to the marked lines. It is not difficult, just need to pay attention. Use a face mask tho, as grp dust is not much fun in your lungs!!
There is also a new tool which I believe is called a ROTARY ZIP. does the same thing but has a very high speed & finer rotary attachments. No idea of costs or if it is battery or not.
best of luck
mike

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Ivy]

If it's a round hole you require, buy a hole saw, and don't forget the arbor that goes with it, a cordless drill will do the job if you don't run it too fast.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Strathglass]

Be carefull as the larger arbours will not fit in most battery drills. For example the arbour for a 40mm hole saw will not fit my 24volt drill.

Apart from a series of holes which has been sugested already you could try the following.
A battery powered jig saw with a blade for cutting ceramic tiles.
A low cost hole cutter with a quarter inch shaft on a cordless drill.
Borrow a generator from someone and use a heavy duty mains drill with a good hole cutter.

Remember mark, check, recheck then cut.

Iain



<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Gunfleet]

With decent size cables and appropriate (crocodile) clips you can run most battery drills straight off your house battery.

<hr width=100% size=1>