Re: Reccomendations on drill bit for wakeboard tower?
I have had good luck drilling through Gelcoat and fiberglass with a step bit provided you can find one with a maximum size near the hole size you need, what size holes are required for your tower? I know they have unibits/step bits from 1/2" up
Re: Reccomendations on drill bit for wakeboard tower?
When drilling your pilot holes, campher the top of the hole with a bit 2 sizes larger or use a counter-sink bit. This will keep the gelcoat from cracking little pieces off when the screw initially bites in.
A sharp bit is all you need to cut through. Should be done in 2-3 step sizes, depending on the final size hole you need. I wouldn't use a brad tipped bit as they are designed for wood. They initially center on the little point and then carve a grove around that until the sections meet.
Start with a sharp standard steel bit. Step up 1-2 sizes until you reach the proper size. Campher the top with either a slightly larger bit or use a countersink bit.
Re: Reccomendations on drill bit for wakeboard tower?
On reversing the bit - if you are using a brad point bit, this works well. You just need to score the surface - don't run it too long in reverse or you will heat up the bit. Just a few seconds to score the hole, then flip back to forward. Only other thing I'll add is when the bit is just about to break through, make sure you hold on to the drill as it will try to grab and pull the drill chuck into the boat.
