Custom Dashboard
Started by
nev100
, Oct 20 2019 06:25 PM
7 replies to this topic
#1
Posted 20 October 2019 - 06:25 PM
Planning on building a custom dashboard.
Will be fitting the dials into metal sheet shaped to fit above dash rail.
Appears the dials will be either 50mm and 80mm diameter.
Any suggestion on best way to cut these size holes in steel sheet.
Many thanks.
Will be fitting the dials into metal sheet shaped to fit above dash rail.
Appears the dials will be either 50mm and 80mm diameter.
Any suggestion on best way to cut these size holes in steel sheet.
Many thanks.
#2
Posted 20 October 2019 - 06:32 PM
https://rover.ebay.c...tm/372557176738
One of these on a pillar drill, assuming you don’t have access to a mill.
Clamp the metal to some wood so that the entire area where the hole is to be cut is supported
One of these on a pillar drill, assuming you don’t have access to a mill.
Clamp the metal to some wood so that the entire area where the hole is to be cut is supported
#3
Posted 20 October 2019 - 06:52 PM
I used a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade after fighting with a Dremel and angle grinder to get the circle right
#4
Posted 20 October 2019 - 07:11 PM
Many thanks.
#5
Posted 20 October 2019 - 09:04 PM
Hole saws are good for this. Just use a decent make like Starrett.
#6
Posted 20 October 2019 - 10:00 PM
A hole saw will do a good job but is best used in a drill press with the sheet of metal secured to a piece of wood.
If you really want to push the boat out then a Q-max cutter is the perfect tool.
If you really want to push the boat out then a Q-max cutter is the perfect tool.
#7
Posted 21 October 2019 - 03:50 AM
A lot has to do with how thick the metal is that you're using, on light weight stuff you can use a knock-out punch, like they use for electrical work - quick and gives a perfect round hole. I've had hole saws - even top brands - walk a little, leaving a rough edge.
#8
Posted 21 October 2019 - 06:12 AM
Well, i've been looking for ways to do décent work like that for ages. In the end, it looks DIY at best. So from now on here is what I do:
I spent some Time learning a CAD software
Spend the time drawing what I really want
Send the files to a métal laser cutting shop. There are plenty on-line that offer various thicknesses, materials. Etc. Sure there is one near you.
You can't beat laser cut métal sheets in terms of finish and accuracy.
I spent some Time learning a CAD software
Spend the time drawing what I really want
Send the files to a métal laser cutting shop. There are plenty on-line that offer various thicknesses, materials. Etc. Sure there is one near you.
You can't beat laser cut métal sheets in terms of finish and accuracy.
0 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users