How to cut holes for speakers? - Page 3 - UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum

Radio Wrangler · 7th Nov 2014, 1:35 am

Actually, it was fun. Though keeping tabs on half a zillion bits of beech as I profiled all the parts before doing the ends with counter-profiles before assembling things... did get a bit manic.

David

Diabolical Artificer · 7th Nov 2014, 12:26 pm

Having worked in a few fitting shops in the past, may I draw your attention to speed when using any drill or power tool.

The basic rule is that the bigger the diameter of a drill bit , the slower the speed you need . This is also true with large diameter hole cutters. So you need a variable speed drill, which should have the facility to fix your speed rather than the pressure of your finger on the drill switch.

You also need to make sure your drill has enough torque. Some hole cutters use a small diameter pilot drill which pulls the cutter into the material your drilling.

Lastly, always practice on a piece of scrap wood first. Its easy to make a mess of the first hole you drill.

When cutting formica covered board, its a good idea to use a glass cutter or equivalent to cut through the formica before drilling the hole, as the formica can chip especially if its old.

Good luck Michael.

Andy.

7th Nov 2014, 1:35 am	#41
Radio Wrangler Moderator Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Fife, Scotland, UK. Posts: 22,872	Re: How to cut holes for speakers? Actually, it was fun. Though keeping tabs on half a zillion bits of beech as I profiled all the parts before doing the ends with counter-profiles before assembling things... did get a bit manic. David __________________ Can't afford the volcanic island yet, but the plans for my monorail and the goons' uniforms are done

7th Nov 2014, 12:26 pm	#42
Diabolical Artificer Dekatron Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Sleaford, Lincs. UK. Posts: 7,661	Re: How to cut holes for speakers? Having worked in a few fitting shops in the past, may I draw your attention to speed when using any drill or power tool. The basic rule is that the bigger the diameter of a drill bit , the slower the speed you need . This is also true with large diameter hole cutters. So you need a variable speed drill, which should have the facility to fix your speed rather than the pressure of your finger on the drill switch. You also need to make sure your drill has enough torque. Some hole cutters use a small diameter pilot drill which pulls the cutter into the material your drilling. Lastly, always practice on a piece of scrap wood first. Its easy to make a mess of the first hole you drill. When cutting formica covered board, its a good idea to use a glass cutter or equivalent to cut through the formica before drilling the hole, as the formica can chip especially if its old. Good luck Michael. Andy. __________________ Curiosity hasn't killed this cat...so far.