4-1/2 hole saw

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

So I've been looking around on the net on ways to modify my case to mount a 3x120mm rad on top and came across something i thought would be very valuable to the average modifier to make things easier. This is news to me. Apparently a 4-1/2 hole saw will cut just about the right size hole to modify your case for a 120mm fan. The other tools are manila masking tape to mark your measurements and cut spots-n-holes, a 4-1/2 hole saw (120mm fans) and a measuring device such as a combination t-square and of course a drill. For different cuts people are using dremel saws for straight cuts in tight spots or whatever.

I'm sure aigomorla will be like, I could of told you that, but... you never did, lol

Hope this helps,

BTRY B 529th FA BN

 

[Zepper]

A 4.5" hole saw works but is quite expensive for one good enough to cut case steel for a single fan mod - you'll need a heavier duty drill as well. A drill, a nibbler tool, and a dremel clone for touch up makes more sense for most occasional users and that expensive bit won't be used enough to justify the cost.

.bh.

 

[Rike]

Originally posted by: Zepper
A 4.5" hole saw works but is quite expensive for one good enough to cut case steel for a single fan mod - you'll need a heavier duty drill as well. A drill, a nibbler tool, and a dremel clone for touch up makes more sense for most occasional users and that expensive bit won't be used enough to justify the cost.

.bh.

True, but if you have money to burn, it sure makes a nice clean hole. Nothing like it, espesically when used with a drill press. :evil:

 

[Rubycon]

I like how the hydraulic punches work myself.

 

[Rike]

Originally posted by: Rubycon
I like how the hydraulic punches work myself.

You get to play with all of the really fun toys!

 

[Zepper]

I don't know if Greenlee chassis punches come in that size, but all you'd need is a long wrench for that, but it would probably cost at least twice as much as a hole saw in that size... IAC, proper fan holes aren't round anyway. Look at the rear fan cutout on most Silverstone cases to see a nearly ideal shape for a 120mm exhaust cutout.

.bh.

 

[Gillbot]

I drill a small hole in the center, place a bolt through it, attach string, tie that to my dremel with a side cut bit and use that to keep the radius. This way works with any size holes.

 

[Rubycon]

Originally posted by: Zepper
I don't know if Greenlee chassis punches come in that size, but all you'd need is a long wrench for that, but it would probably cost at least twice as much as a hole saw in that size... IAC, proper fan holes aren't round anyway. Look at the rear fan cutout on most Silverstone cases to see a nearly ideal shape for a 120mm exhaust cutout.

.bh.

Hydraulic punches go higher than this. Yes if you want a perfect cutout shape the only way to do it is use the services of a professional machine shop with a CO2 laser table. They can get the shape of the fan and cut it *perfectly* for you. Of course a circle is sufficient considering the grill will cover the overage. A CD makes a nice template if you're doing it freehand with a jigsaw.

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

Originally posted by: Zepper
A 4.5" hole saw works but is quite expensive for one good enough to cut case steel for a single fan mod - you'll need a heavier duty drill as well. A drill, a nibbler tool, and a dremel clone for touch up makes more sense for most occasional users and that expensive bit won't be used enough to justify the cost.

.bh.

I'd rather end up with the tools for later on than spending a thousand dollars on a case that's semi pre-fabbed for H20 cooling.

55$ for a Lenox 4-1/2 holesaw & the holesaw fitting.

Most people will already have a drill availiable from a friend or a parent. I have my own which I bought way earlier for home renovations. Masking tape = 3$ 1 marker, pen, pencil = nothing Files are cheap too.

People, don't get discouraged.

 

[WoodButcher]

Originally posted by: BTRY B 529th FA BN

Originally posted by: Zepper
A 4.5" hole saw works but is quite expensive for one good enough to cut case steel for a single fan mod - you'll need a heavier duty drill as well. A drill, a nibbler tool, and a dremel clone for touch up makes more sense for most occasional users and that expensive bit won't be used enough to justify the cost.

.bh.

I'd rather end up with the tools for later on than spending a thousand dollars on a case that's semi pre-fabbed for H20 cooling.

55$ for a Lenox 4-1/2 holesaw & the holesaw fitting.

Most people will already have a drill availiable from a friend or a parent. I have my own which I bought way earlier for home renovations. Masking tape = 3$ 1 marker, pen, pencil = nothing Files are cheap too.

People, don't get discouraged.

This is my preferred method, I'll make a plywood template first, same dimension as the rad, all holes drilled, hoses, screws and fans. When drilling I'll use double sided tape to locate the pattern and clamps to hold a backer sheet of ply. If you do any home improvements not owning a hole saw is foolish. Dryer vents, electrical repair and installation, lock sets, you name it this tool is a must have.

 

[Rubycon]

Originally posted by: WoodButcher

This is my preferred method, I'll make a plywood template first, same dimension as the rad, all holes drilled, hoses, screws and fans. When drilling I'll use double sided tape to locate the pattern and clamps to hold a backer sheet of ply. If you do any home improvements not owning a hole saw is foolish. Dryer vents, electrical repair and installation, lock sets, you name it this tool is a must have.

What about a flycutter? I've used them on thick stock - woods and plastics for the mounting of pressure gauges.

 

[WoodButcher]

Originally posted by: Rubycon
What about a flycutter? I've used them on thick stock - woods and plastics for the mounting of pressure gauges.

I have one and use it occasionally, I like the fact that it is infinitely adjustable but they are dangerous for "Joe home pro", hell, I've been bit by hole saws biting in suddenly when passing though dissimilar materials and I'm supposed to be a pro.

 

[Rubycon]

Originally posted by: WoodButcher

I have one and use it occasionally, I like the fact that it is infinitely adjustable but they are dangerous for "Joe home pro", hell, I've been bit by hole saws biting in suddenly when passing though dissimilar materials and I'm supposed to be a pro.

Yes! The ability to make a hole ANY size is best. Dangerous? Whenever I can use something dangerous I'm game.