Tips for cutting holes to install electronics

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tim_farrell's picture
tim_farrell
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Joined: 3/15/11
Posts: 117
Tips for cutting holes to install electronics

I am planning on redoing my wiring on my MK1. The PO overloaded many of the switch/fuse combos so as part of my redo, I will add an 8 switch panel. I'd like to mount it in the same housing as the original panel. I also want to embed my stereo and VHF in that housing. 

Any preferred method for cutting the holes? Jig saw? Multi-tool? Other? Just looking for best practice suggestions.

Thanks in advance - Tim

Tim Farrell
S.V. Kailua
C36 - 1986
Hull# CTY0678A886

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LeslieTroyer
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Posts: 533

I like the multi tool.  One thing that helps is to cover the teak ply with blue tape layout your opening then using a straight edge score the straight part of the opening with a razor knife.  This will minimize tearing. 

still a work in progress but a few more circuits than stock.   11 AC + Main. 20 DC + Main


 

Les & Trish Troyer
Mahalo 
Everett, WA
1983 C-36 Hull #0094
C-36 MK 1 Technical Editor. 

Commodore

 

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tim_farrell
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Posts: 117

Wow Les, that looks really great. That is very close to the layout I was thinking of. Really like the BlueSea panels in your pic as well. 

Thanks for the suggestion on the blue tape - will follow that suggestion.

tim

Tim Farrell
S.V. Kailua
C36 - 1986
Hull# CTY0678A886

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newguy
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Posts: 408

Oscillating multi-tool for straight cuts.  For round cuts, either a hole saw or rotary multi-tool (Dremel).  The Dremel is a good tool for other jobs: cutting and grinding metals, wire wheel for rust removal, etc.

Nick Caballero
Retired C36/375IA Mk II Technical Editor

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tim_farrell
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Posts: 117

Thanks Nick - looks like I'm about to purchase another tool! Just needed an excuse.

Tim Farrell
S.V. Kailua
C36 - 1986
Hull# CTY0678A886

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