STEP BITS Teach me about them please!

[CBari]

I recently bought a CM flat bet for my 03 truck and after it was installed I realized it didn't have a hole for the spare tire let down. The biggest drill bit in my arsenal was only a 3/4 so I used it and wallered it out. It is good enough and works but hole really needs to be bigger closer to 1 1/8. I have never used any step bits but you see them being used all the time on TV, but it is usually on sheet metal, how do they work and hold up when drilling into 1/8inch plate or bigger.

Also how do you use them do you need to drill a pilot hole or just us punch and get started. Last question would you buy one for this project or just buy a single bigger bit.

Thanks

 

[CThomsen]

I've used them up to 1". Just start with a small pilot hole. You feel the bit drop in further at every step. Would a small hole saw work better for you?

 

[B.G. Smith]

The hole saw is the best way to go but you won't be able to use it to enlarge an existing hole as it uses its pilot drill to stabalize, I have some step drills but don't think they are larger than 1". A good die grinder with a burr or stone might work. A bigger drill will break your arm trying to enlarge a hole that large. bg

 

[p-Bar]

I'm with BG since you have drilled a hole already buy the appropriate holesaw and drill a hole thru a piece of plywood them put that over where you need to drill and use it as a guide. You can stradle the plywood on each side to drill.

 

[seafish]

This one drills up to 1 1/8"... I have used in it in up to 1/4" plate...much thicker and it's slow going, but for up to 1/4" its GREAT!!!

http://www.harborfreight.com/2-piec...d-high-speed-steel-step-drill-bits-69088.html

 

[Deleted member 995608]

Hole saw (slow RPM) plasma or oxy/act torch. Step bits won't last in anything other than thinner metals, making it an expensive throw away tool.

 

[redbone]

step bit will work but do it slow & easy but they are expensive.

 

[BIGNASTY]

Used several step bits when I took an International 3 axle truck and made it into a 2 axle, used the step bit to drill new holes in the frame rails for the single screw rear end.

I smacked the drill spot with a VERY LARGE punch and short handled sledge hammer got the step bit started it went thru the frame rails like butter, used a few, but just one word of advice!! I used a 1/2 inch Milwaukee drill if the drill bit catches and stops YOU WILL BREAK A WRIST with the drill spinning around!! I like the use of the step bit the holes were perfectly round and cut very clean. Use plenty of machine oil on the bit when drilling

 

[CBari]

Thanks guys I will give one a try. I have had first hand experience with the torque that the large drills produce when they bite. I have been there done that and got the t-shirt.