Drill bit for threads???

[gold_leader64]

I recently drilled out some rivets in a case, and was planning on replacing them with screws, but I'm a noob, and realized too late the screws weren't going to work because the holes weren't threaded, so the screw wouldn't go in.

I will have to replace the rivets after paint. Anyway, my question is: is there a drill bit that will thread a hole? I don't know much about the variety of bits out there, so any help is appreciated.

[Logic Zero]

What you are after is a tap and die set, used to thread rods of metal or cut a thread in a hole.

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/tl_metalworking/article/0,2037,DIY_14390_2270183,00.html

That shows you the basics, the kits are available from most hardware stores, have fun!:D

-Christy

[Logic Zero]

Just had a thought though, the metal will need to be of a moderate thickness for the thread to be cut into it, might/might not work, if you do it carefully it should! :)

[m4gnum]

I don't know of a drill bit that will do it as it would turn too fast and you'd get a smooth sided hole. The more traditional way to make screw threads is with a tap and die set. The tap is the piece like a drill bit that makes a thread in a hole, the die is what makes a thread on a pole.

A quick google found me a video of a guy using a set: http://www.wsavts.org/machine/machineadam.mov

[Cannibal23]

when makeing threads you should back the tool out every pretty often to make sure it dosent bind up and to make your threads cleaner. this will also prevent you from snapping your tool by applying too much torque on it as it starts to hit stronger resistance.

[Airbozo]

For thin material you could also use self tapping metal screws. They have a deep thread that will hold even on thin aluminum and if you get the right size, no drilling. For a finished look I have filed off the sharp points after screwing them in, then you can remove and re-install them if need be.

[tybrenis]

I recently drilled out some rivets in a case, and was planning on replacing them with screws, but I'm a noob, and realized too late the screws weren't going to work because the holes weren't threaded, so the screw wouldn't go in.

Don't forget to consider simple bolts. You can never go wrong with the good ol' nuts and bolts system.

[Cannibal23]

bolts work wonders. if you want it to look nice and clean you can look at diffrent types of cap screws. you can even get some anodized to be a particular color to suit your motif

[tybrenis]

bolts work wonders. if you want it to look nice and clean you can look at diffrent types of cap screws. you can even get some anodized to be a particular color to suit your motif

Exactly.

[nil8]

I'm still a fan of rivets for their simplicity and wide range of sizes and shapes.

Can a tap & die be used in plex?

[tybrenis]

I'm still a fan of rivets for their simplicity and wide range of sizes and shapes.

Can a tap & die be used in plex?

Yes,

You can tap plexiglass. Just make sure to drill the right sized pilot hole, and then just chuck up the tap in your drill and go right through. Acrylic is very easily tapped and it holds threads surprisingly well.

[Airbozo]

I have tapped plexi as well and it works great and looks good. You can even find some plastic screws that will match the plexi pretty close, and brass or chrome screws look good to. Also I always hand tap due to the possibility of stripping the hole or breaking the tap.