Personally, I would go to a machine shop with a big drill press. You
want a low bit speed, an Oil feed to cool the bit and spring, and the
ability to clamp the spring down. If you get it too hot it will lose
it's temper (so will you). If the bit Snags and doesn't make a clean
hole, the spring could develop stress cracks (again, so will you.) A big
drill press or better yet Vertical Mill will be able to do this without
ruining the spring.
With that said, If one was to attempt this at home. I would start with
a very small bit and work My way up. Keep the spring in an oil bath and
never get it hot.
>----------
>From: Frank Clarici[SMTP:spritenut@Exit109.com]
>Reply To: Frank Clarici
>Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 1998 4:49 PM
>To: spridgets@Autox.Team.Net
>Subject: Drilling Leaf springs
>
>Spridgeteers,
>
>Does any one know if it is possible to drill a 5/16" hole through hardened
>steel?
>Like through a set of leaf springs!
>
>In my quest to finish up the Austin A40 which only needs new leaf springs
>now, I
>ordered a new set for a 1500 Midget. The length and width is the same as the
>A40.
>The axle mount peg is offset on the Midget, it is centered on the A40.
>I can use the new springs if only I knew how to drill through the hardened
>steel.
>I can just make a new hole, reposition the axle peg, and the car will sit
>level
>once more.
>
>I bet you people never knew the leaf springs had the hole 2" off center.
>I have changed plenty of Spridget leafs and never knew this.
>
>Titanium drill bits do not scratch the surface!
>
>Looking for ideas or a buyer for brand new leaf springs.
>
>Thanks
>--
>Frank Clarici
>Seeing all of you at Sprite Rush 98
>For more info on Sprite Rush, the 40th anniversery of the Sprite
>Check out my home page http://www.exit109.com/~spritenut
>------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>
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