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IN a thread I posted else where about a new drill press stop, I mentioned I had to drill the end of a 1/2" steel threaded rod and tap it and cut it off.
At first I had a **** of a time clamping it to drill, then to tap and then to cut.
It has a tendency to roll. since the threads are fragile you can't clamp too tight or damage the threads, Second the threads have a small bearing surface they cut into and damage the vise and they want to spin and work against drilling, tapping, etc.
I eventually took a 2x2 x 4-5" long, drilled a 1/2" hole down the center with a spade bit, and then sliced it through the hole the long way on the band saw.
This removed enough material so that the wood mashed against the threads before the halves met, holding the piece over a large area and length while cushioning the threads.
Once you sandwiched the rod like a hot dog in a bun (great description), clamp the assy in the vise as hard as you want without fear of damaging the vise or the rod.
It worked pretty well.
At first I had a **** of a time clamping it to drill, then to tap and then to cut.
It has a tendency to roll. since the threads are fragile you can't clamp too tight or damage the threads, Second the threads have a small bearing surface they cut into and damage the vise and they want to spin and work against drilling, tapping, etc.
I eventually took a 2x2 x 4-5" long, drilled a 1/2" hole down the center with a spade bit, and then sliced it through the hole the long way on the band saw.
This removed enough material so that the wood mashed against the threads before the halves met, holding the piece over a large area and length while cushioning the threads.
Once you sandwiched the rod like a hot dog in a bun (great description), clamp the assy in the vise as hard as you want without fear of damaging the vise or the rod.
It worked pretty well.
Loring in Katy, TX USA
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