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Cutting fiberglass help

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Jefffriday
Navigator

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USA
198 Posts

Initially Posted - 05/08/2008 : 10:16:17

I am doing the storage mod behind the settee (sp?) in the cabin, I got through the right side holes, but in the process, I went through every blade for my Milwaukee Sabre Saw I had (6 blades) I tried metal, wood, everything, It seemed to be dull within 3 or 4 inches of cutting, the glass is only about 1/4 inch thick. I tried different speeds as well. Anybody have any Ideas to get through this stuff. I still have the port side to do. Thanks for the help from those of you who have done this. Lots of room in there (or there will be when I get it done)

infinity
89 wk/sr #5860
Basalt CO.

Edited by - on

OLarryR
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3494 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 11:43:21

It doesn't seem possible that you would have so much trouble using the tools you mentioned considering I cut thru similar thickness in front of the sink to put a new circuit breaker panel in using a shrimpy Dremel with a diamond cutting blade. Only issue believe I had was my Dremel needed a recharge - Then finished the opening the next day.

maybe it has to do with the thickness of the blade since the saber saws generally will have a thicker blade than the thin Dremel blades. The thinner blade cuts thru with less fiberglas cutting.

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Renzo
Admiral

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USA
621 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 11:56:37

I posted the original thread about this mod but it's been a long time since I did the work. I do remember using up a lot of saw blades but I don't think I had the amount of trouble that you seem to be having. If I were doing the work today I would probubly invest in a Rotosip spiral cutting tool similar to the ones shown here

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/s_10153_12605_
Tools_Portable+Power+Tools_Rotary+%26+Spiral+Cutting+
Tools?keyword=roto-zip+spiral+cutting+tool&sLevel=1%7C2&sLevel=

The least expensive one shown should do the trick nicely

Edited by - Renzo on 05/08/2008 12:43:43

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

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Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 12:29:34

I installed a fiberglass tub/enclosure a number of years ago and it made mincemeat out of my hole saws when making the holes for the fixtures.

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Sloop Smitten
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1181 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 15:08:59

I used up all my sabre saw blades as well until I got a medium toothed metal cutting blade. That seemed to do the trick. Fiberglass is a lot tougher then it lets on.

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quilombo
Captain

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USA
301 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 19:04:10

you have to use a Roto Zip tool, and use fiberglass/wood bits, it works perfect, I used it to install stero speaker holes

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Happy D
Admiral

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921 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 19:04:27

I use an abrasive cutoff wheel. I cut the entire cockpit sole and didn't use but one blade.
You can put it in you circular saw.
[url="http://www2.northerntool.com/product/200335691.htm"]Like these.[/url]
You can get them at most hardware stores. I used a metal cutting blade but either will probably work.

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quilombo
Captain

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USA
301 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 19:05:57

for those who dont know,A Roto Zip is like a high speed router but hand held, most contractors use them to cut holes in dry wall etc

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Oksky
1st Mate

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Canada
40 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 19:51:24

I use a 4" zip cut wheel on a small angel grinder. Have to be careful though. It cuts fast and can do alot of damage in a second or two. It's like a very thin grinding disc. I use them on just about everything from metal to plastic.

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32chevcab
Deckhand

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12 Posts

Response Posted - 05/08/2008 : 21:40:15

I just completed this mod. I bought a 3 inch dia Morse hole saw for the corners and a 2 pack Bi-Metal Morse saber saw blades part number SB3614 from my local big box store. I cut 2 ports per side approximately 20 inch x 7 inch. I used only one saber blade and the hole saw was still sharp after the four holes . I guess I was just lucky.

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DaveR
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
2015 Posts

Response Posted - 05/09/2008 : 07:56:34

I used a saber saw with a medium wood blade when I put speakers in my boat and had no problem with dulling. I still love this mod and have GOT to find time to do it

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.