Installing Grab Irons on Walthers Trinity 2 Bay Cement Hopper

[Josh]

I'm installing some grabs on a Walthers Gold Line Trinity 2 Bay Cement Hopper for the Southern. I'm stopped right now, I need to know what size bit I need to drill better holes in the temp lets. No pictures for now, my friend is the one with the camera, and he's off in South Carolina.

Helps is welcome, and I don't even have a push drill yet, so help in that field is welcome too. Pictures will come, when the friend comes.

Joshua

[Eastern Roads]

Josh,

Sometimes in this hobby we get to thinking we need to buy or have certain tools and accessories in order to put our trains together. Whenever I have installed grab irons, handrails, and the like, what I have done is to find a bit that corresponds (is close to) the size I will need to drill into the locomotive, car, whatever. On most occasions, I have just taken the drill bit and spun it in my fingers to have better control over it. A little at a time, and soon it gets through. Placement of the bit is critical, and if you're using a high speed Dremel, then all it'll do is melt the plastic, and that's just a bigger hole than you wanted. (Don't ask me how I know these things... ) Be careful to keep the bit straight, because if you don't you can snap it off.
Having a push drill makes it all easier though. If it's a sure thing coming, then I would wait for it. When you're done with that, show us some pics!!

[Josh]

I re-read the instructions, and they recommended a No. 80 bit. How does that sound? A push drill might be something to ask for, or save up for. Money is very tight, that's why I'm seemingly always un-equiped for each project yet I always find another way to do something... Don't ask me how.


Joshua

[DCCinstalled]

You got it #80 is typically the size used for grabs...

I have a video from BLMA that might help on this page

[Sawdust]

I second that on the #80. Josh you might want to pick up a pen vise, some come with an assortment of bits inside the handle.

[Josh]

Thanks, the needed grab irons already came with the model. The video doesn't seem to work, all I need is the drill bit, thanks. I'm not buying right now...

Thanks again!

Joshua

[sdkid]

Money is tight all over. My tip is to buy the #80 DRILL AT A PARTS OR HARDWARE STORE. Sorry, caps locks. Anyway, it should only be a couple bucks and as said above try drilling by hand 1st. The pin vise may not be needed. I don't mean to short the hobby shop, but gotta save money where you can.

[Josh]

Thanks, I'll ask and look around next time I go!

Joshua