Pilot holes??

[mp18d]

So I'm building some gym type equipment, and have to drill a number of 5/8" holes in 11gauge mild steel rectangular tubing.
I don't remember from shop class if I should drill pilot holes to save wear n tear on drill bits and drill press, or just go to it with the 5/8 drill...
Does anyone else know??

Thanks!
Mike

 

[ckamp52]

drill the pilot holes...reduces the bit walking on you for more precise holes and as you mentioned it will save you a lot of wear and tear on you bigger bit which costs more than the small bits you can use for the pilot holes i would go with about a 3/16 then move on up to the 5/8 and use some lube should be good to go

 

[BIG JOE]

Or even a Step bit ?

If yer using a Drill Press, you could get'm done purdy quik. Makes a nice clean hole too..

 

[mp18d]

Yeah, almost forgot about cutting oil...Musta cut class that day!

Thanks for the help!

Mike

 

[nmu1974]

I thought "Pilot Holes" were what you used to fly and stay VFR.

 

[DaveBen]

I think you are confusing "Pilot Holes" with "Sucker Holes"! Nice guess, thou...

Dave

 

[powerboatr]

I thought "Pilot Holes" were what you used to fly and stay VFR.

roger Navy

 

[nmu1974]

I think you are confusing "Pilot Holes" with "Sucker Holes"! Nice guess, thou...

Dave

Just a joke, now go buy me a bucket of prop wash and 100 yds. of flight line!

 

[DaveBen]

Ok on the prop wash, but I am having a hard time finding the Flight Line. Home Depot or Lowes?

Dave

 

[BIG JOE]

It's right next to the Chow Line.. Dave.. at both stores.

Joe