Cutting a 41mm hole in the roof

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tribute_650
Cutting a 41mm hole in the roof

 Hi, I am wanting to drill /cut a 41mm hole in the roof of the ducato to mount a globesat satellite dish. What is the best way to make the hole please? I have seen hole cutters and arbors on ebay but the teeth look too coarse, has anyone used one on the flimsy van steel ? What do you recommend I use?

Many Thanks

Paul

campermaster
campermaster's picture
Might be a bit heath-robinson

Might be a bit heath-robinson but I'd just drill a hole big enough to get a jigsaw blade in, use a jigsaw to cut the bulk of it, then a round file to get the hole just right. I've never thought it worth buying a hole cutter for a one-off job like this.

tribute_650
Thanks for your reply, I also

Thanks for your reply, I also would normally do that but the steel seems very flimsy and there is the roof insulation as well, probably just me being very timid of a brand new ducato roof!

sloppycoder
Ages old now but for anyone
Ages old now but for anyone else looking, i'd reccomend a tool called a tank cutter.... http://www.plumbworld.co.uk/hexagon-shank-adjustable-1822-1537 really handy thing to have as they can make any size hole. When working metal go very very slowly, spray oil on constantly and keep checking how hot things are getting. Work the hole from both sides (or at least score from one side before cutting all the way through from the other) as this prevents any breakout/excessive burring or indeed taking off flakey paint. You should literally be looking to spend about 30mins making a hole through sheet steel but it will be spot on :)
eavzy
 you could use some wood

 you could use some wood screwed through the potential hole to brace the area and stop any flex. i used an angle-grinder with cutting disk to do the hole, then a flapper disk to bring it down and eventually a round file and sandpaper.

good luck, its scary cutting holes in a new roof.

matt

stearman65
Hole saws

The Enox range of hole cutters are ideal for the purpose, pick one with fine pitched teeth and just take it steady. Drill a pilot hole in the centre of where you want the hole & ease the spinning cutter down onto the metal. A little oil smeared on the surface should prevent the cutter grabbing. Finally, ensure there is nothing structural or wiring below where you want the hole.

Stearman65.