Drilling holes in the TT's frame question
I am going to be drilling some 1/2" diameter holes in my trailer frame ,(the I beam) for some eye bolts for hurricane tie downs. My question for any one that has done this or drilled through any ste...
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1/2" seems like a fairly large hole to accommodate hardware. You could probably choose a smaller diameter and have a lot of tensile strength left over with the hardware. I'm with others about the beam clamps but I have no idea about the intricacies of FL tie down rules. I'd assume that only a cursory inspection would be done and if the unit had some sort of protection against lifting in hurricane winds, that should suffice.
To answer the stated question: Yes, starting with a smaller bit and working up to larger diameters is the best way. If the steel in the frame proved to be very hard, I'd suggest to use a stepped bit of good quality. They seem to remove material easier than straight bits in some situations. Further suggestions: Keep bit speed low and use cutting fluid to keep bit temps down.
To answer the stated question: Yes, starting with a smaller bit and working up to larger diameters is the best way. If the steel in the frame proved to be very hard, I'd suggest to use a stepped bit of good quality. They seem to remove material easier than straight bits in some situations. Further suggestions: Keep bit speed low and use cutting fluid to keep bit temps down.
