Spot Weld Drill Bits, Help me buy the right thing Options

[Richard Casto]

Don’t know much about them, but expect I am going to need one for my work on my 914. A quick Google search seems to show that they come in different sizes as well as styles? Some look like one piece bits while others look like a small bit that must go into some other type of chuck or mount. Some look very much like a regular drill bit and some look more like a hole saw with arbor. Some mention some type of depth gauges to prevent drilling out the metal behind the weld.

Recommendations on what style I should get?
What size should I look for?
Any tips or tricks on how to use these?

[dkos]

QUOTE (jonwatts @ Mar 17 2006, 04:15 AM)

In a pinch Dewalt Pilot Point drill bits work about just as well and can be gotten on a Sunday afternoon at your local Lowes / Home Depot.

I agree...the Dewalt Pilot Points rule! They are cheap (compared to $20-$30 for the Eastwood bits), stay sharp for a long time and don't skip. I tried both of the bits sold by Eastwood. The spring loaded pilot broke within the first 15 spot welds I drilled out and the other bit is harder to keep centered and dulls quickly. The only drawback of the Dewalt bits is that you have to be more careful about going through the back piece. That little point that keeps you centered wants to go through the back piece before you get through the top piece. It cuts quickly and with a lot less effort than the Eastwood bits. Watch carefully while you are drilling...there will be a little puff of smoke when you get through the top piece. Stop when you see the smoke. You probably won't be completely through, but will be able to gently pry the two pieces apart and will only have a small indentation on the back piece.

My $0.02...save your money...you can buy 5 Dewalt Pilot Points for the price of one Eastwood Spot Weld Bit...and they are good for drilling the plug-weld holes in your replacement pieces!

ps:

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