upright trapwork, experience drilling metal queery

[Newton Hunt]

Hi, Audrey, (got it right this time)
      Any normal HSS (high speed steel) drill bit will drill nice neat holes
in the mild steel of an upright damper lift rod.  Use a punch and hammer to
mark the exact location where you want the hole.  Select the drill bit of the
size you want.  Select a drill press speed based upon size and material.  (720
rpms for 3/8" hole into mild and maliable steel.)  If you have a suitable drill
press vise you can clamp the rod up to make the job easier.  If you have only a
hand drill that is OK as well, and faster for set up.  Use some taping fluid,
cutting oil or just plain old 3 in 1 to help disapate heat and drill your hole.
      Keep a puddle of oil at the bit/rod contact point to help prevent
burning the bit from heat build up.
      Go to it!  The best way to learn how not to ruin a bit is to ruin one
or two.  They are replaceable!
      Lots of luck,
            Newton
            nhunt@rci.rutgers.edu