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  #1  
Old 11-21-2017, 12:09 PM
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LeoKenner LeoKenner is offline
 
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: Sherwood Park, AB
Posts: 27
Default Notched panel hole punch?

I've seen various methods for cutting holes into a panel, and it seems like a punch is one of the preferred methods, then using a template for drilling the holes for the screws to attach the various gauges.

What I haven't been able to find is how best to cut the notch like many altimeter seem to have.

Anyone have any experience on how that is done?

Leo
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  #2  
Old 11-21-2017, 12:21 PM
Kyle Boatright Kyle Boatright is offline
 
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 4,218
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Drill a hole, then enlarge it to a slot with a file.
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  #3  
Old 11-21-2017, 12:23 PM
Stoo Stoo is offline
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: LL10, Naperville, IL.
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I'd fire up my Dremel for that. Might be biased----- as a dentist, that's my go-to tool for a lot of stuff!

Stewart Willoughby, 6 panel/wiring
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  #4  
Old 11-21-2017, 12:28 PM
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JonJay JonJay is offline
 
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Location: Battleground
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Cut/punch the round instrument hole. Layout a line to match the extra cut out you need. Match the radius of the corners with an appropriate drill and drill holes at each corner. Use a hand held nibbler and cut to each hole and between holes. Leave the layout line. File with a needle file to the finished line. Trial fit the instrument as you go.
That is how I did it.
Many ways to skin it.
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Last edited by JonJay : 11-21-2017 at 12:30 PM.
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  #5  
Old 11-21-2017, 12:29 PM
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XOverZero XOverZero is offline
 
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Irvine, CA
Posts: 416
Default What they said...

Draw the outline, drill out the general area with several small holes, then clean out the remainder with a die grinder. Go on slow, be careful...it works fine.
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  #6  
Old 11-21-2017, 03:36 PM
sblack sblack is offline
 
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Montreal
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I bought an air operated pencil die grinder from China and some carbide burrs. One of my favorite tools. It eats aluminum like butter. You have to be careful, but it really works well. If you are cheap, or chicken, just a set of files will do.
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