What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

[HeadHunt]

I will be installing an Icom 402 VHF in my center console. I am planning on flush mounting it. I have the template for the hole cutout size. What is the best method for cutting the hole without chipping? Should I use a jig saw with fine tooth blade? High speed or low speed?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[JB]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Put masking tape on the places to be cut.<br /><br />Start with a hole saw.<br /><br />Use a fine tooth blade at low speed.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[CalicoKid]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

If you use a jigsaw use a very high quality blade, like Bosch, made for laminates. Cover the enire area to be cut with a layer of masking tape first. I'd personally run the saw at medium-high speed and use very light pressure advancing the cut to get a nice smooth opening.<br /><br />If the hole is round a hole saw would work well.<br /><br />Obviously, you want to be very careful of anything behind the console while cutting.

 

[swist]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Cover the enire area to be cut with a layer of masking tape first

More specifically cover anything that any part of the base of the saw will touch - don't forget when you turn corners the back of the saw will swing away from the cut line. A vibrating saw body against unprotected gelcoat will mar the surface in no time.<br /><br />(Been there, done that )

 

[HeadHunt]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Thanks very much. Of course, being a VHF, this will be a rectangular hole but I will start with a hole saw to get it going, correct?

 

[Scaaty]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Originally posted by HeadHunt:<br /> , this will be a rectangular hole but I will start with a hole saw to get it going, correct?

Skip the hole saw if a rectangle and drill holes (big enough for the sawblade) INSIDE the rectangle at the corners, and saw from there

 

[jimmythekid]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

dremel or rotozips work well

 

[jheron]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Here is a tip from an old sparky if any are interested... when using a hole saw on laminates or other "chippy" surfaces just run the saw in reverse untill your through the first layer and your chipping will be gone

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: What is the best wat to cut hole in console?

Excellent tip!