Tip #90
How to Drill Holes for Screws in Hardwood
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Operations:
1. Prepare two pieces of hardwood 3/4" x 3" x 7-1/2".

2. Make four punch marks 1-1/2" apart in the surface of one piece, and on a line 3/8" from one edge.

Fig. 4Click image for larger view.

Note: Let us drill for 1-1/2" - #8 round head screws and without countersink or counterbore.

3. Secure correct drill bit in the chuck and lock table 3" below drill point.

4. Using scrap stock under the hardwood, drill four clearance holes completely through stock. Follow procedure specified in Operations 5 through 12 in Tip #89.

5. Position drilled stock on the edge of the other piece of hardwood as indicated in diagram.

Fig. 5 Click image for larger view.

6. Feed a punch through the drilled holes and mark the centers of pilot holes on edge of hardwood.

Note: Be sure to keep all edges of both pieces of hardwood in exact alignment while marking centers. Use a punch which almost fills the drilled holes.

Fig. 6 Click image for larger view.

7. Secure an 11/16" drill bit in chuck.

8. Place stock on edge against rip fence and position right hand hole under drill bit point.

9. Drill the four pilot or lead holes following procedure specified in Operations 5 through 12 of Tip #89 except set depth gauge for 3/8".

10. Place the two pieces in proper alignment, insert screws and drive.

Note: If the screws bind, coat the threads with paraffin or soap.

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