Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

Ok, my attempts at drilling a hole into my pipe has failed. I have a week to fit my exhaust before it goes in for it's service.

How can I drill a 3/16" hole?

Do I just need a more powerful drill?

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

is it a cheap cordless drill? although it should do

what is the drill bit like?.......probaly this is the prob?

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

Have you got the right sort of drill bit for the material you are trying to drill into ?

Why are you drilling a hole in your exhaust to fit it anyway ?

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

It's a cordless drill and the drill bit just spins across the surface of the pipe. What drill bit should i be using? I might leave it to be done at the service.

I'm drilling a hole cos according to my instructions I need a hole in the pipe for a securing rivet to go in which is then clamped over with the exhaust clamp.

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

a metal drill bit
stone has a bit welded into the end
piccy to follow


put a piece of maskin tape over where you want to drill to stop it slipping

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

For a start some basics, you're drilling a curved surface aren't you? either centre punch or use some gaffer tape(make a cross) to make a start point, lubricate,start slow, use a colbalt drill bit.

If you still have no joy you don't have the right tools for the job.

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

If its spinning across the surface, it sounds like you've got the wrong drill bit.

You want a bit designed for Metal, preferably a HSS "Hardened Speed Steel" Drill bit. ( I think ) Also if your bit is blunt thats not going to help either.

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

Thanks everyone

It looks like I have a (slightly blunt) metal bit, will try again tomorrow with some gaffer tape (maybe go out & get a new bit) and let you know how I get on.

Re: Can't drill into exhaust pipe
 

You need a HSS "high speed steel" drill bit, its capable of running red hot without getting blunt, whereas a normal carbon steel bit will soften easily from the friction generated. If its a stainess steel pipe it will be harder to drill anyway because the steel "work hardens" as you are cutting it. Try a centre punch and a new HSS bit with a blob of oil on the centre punched start point to act as lubricant.

Jack Brown, BSc (Hons) Industrial Metallurgy !