What kind of business would drill boxes?

[trjones1]

I'm looking for a place that will be able to drill out boxes more accurately than I've been able to, but I can't figure where in the Yellow Pages to look.  What do you guys think I should be looking for?

[amptramp]

Typical machine shops would be able to do this, but setup charges may be high.  It would work best for a production run.

[jkokura]

Pedal Parts Plus is known to do it too - and they'll powdercoat the boxes as well.

Jacob

[Paul Marossy]

Pedal Parts Plus is known to do it too - and they'll powdercoat the boxes as well.

Jacob

+1 on PPP.

[CynicalMan]

+1 on PPP, but I've had better results from forum member John Lyons.

If you order from PPP, I'd suggest giving exact instructions. I got one of their 1290NS generic drilled boxes with a couple of drilling changes, and they drilled the jack holes too far away from the stompswitch, and too close to the top of the enclosure for my liking.

[joegagan]

When we were doing quantity, my guys could mark and drill 100 enclosures in less than 8 hrs. Four pots, two stomps, two jacks, two board mount holes (countersunk). Including labor overhead, this was less than a dollar a box. UniBits and a good drill press, along with an accurate marking template\spring loaded center-punch were key. Volume makes a big difference of course. If a guy has to set up to drill ten boxes, it might take 30-50% the time it takes to do a hundred.

I mention this in case it helps make a determination as to value on hole drilling costs.

[trjones1]

Thanks for the replies.  It looks like I'll be drilling by hand for the time being.  I hadn't even thought of setup costs or anything.  Unfortunately I'm not in a position to own a drill press right now as space is an issue.

[alparent]

If we knew in what region you are .... they might be fellow DIY'er that are setup that might be willing to help you out?

I wouldn't mind helping a fellow DIY'er myself. I'm in Gatineau Québec in Canada.

Where are you located?

[chi_boy]

Unfortunately I'm not in a position to own a drill press right now as space is an issue.

I don't know what kind of drill press you had your eye on, but there are table top drill presses available.  You don't need a monster that is as tall as you are to drill boxes.  I have had a Craftsman 10" drill press that has served me well for years, and is fully capable of drilling boxes.  Just a thought.  Your milage may vary, bla bla bla.

[jkokura]

You can, and I have for many boxes, use a hand drill. Make sure you have a good hand drill though. I found it easier because I owned one already. However, if you're going to have to buy a hand drill, it's better to get a drill press and a small screwdriver type drill rather than a big industrial one. You'll spend the same amount of money and get two useful tools rather than one.

jacob