CUTTING HULL FLOOD / VENT HOLES

[insvorloc]

Shipmates: I am about to start on an ENGEL GATO build, and need some tips / tricks / tools / advice / magic / witchcraft
for cutting / drilling the thousands of holes on this hull. Any and all advice is welcome. Any build advice specific to this
sub kit is welcome also. Thank you in advance.

[bigdave]

Re: CUTTING HULL FLOOD / VENT HOLES

Good tools to do the job right are a must.
I would start a collection of Perma-grit tools.

http://www.permagrit.com/

They will not dull when working with fiberglass.

Then a good rotory tool like the Dremil Stylus.
The best tool I own for modeling.
http://www.dremel.com/en-us/tools/Pages ... x?pid=1100
I can't say enough good things about it.
Get some good carbide burrs too.
Fiberglass is death to all tools not made from carbide. BD.

[Guest]

Re: CUTTING HULL FLOOD / VENT HOLES

I find diamond coated tools are good for working glass laminates.

I have a miniature set of diamond needle files, and they're fabulous for working GRP.

[JWLaRue]

Re: CUTTING HULL FLOOD / VENT HOLES

A technique that I have helpful when making any sort of opening in a fiberglass hull is to cover the general area to be cut with tape (clear or blue masking, etc.). This will prevent most of the edge chipping that occurs.

I also draw all the openings on the hull, assuming that there aren't pre-scribed lines, to act as guidance while cutting. I cover those markings with clear tape which prevents the lines from getting erased as you work on the piece. If I use an opaque tape, I draw the guides directly on the tape.

-Jeff