Need a little help...

**Optimus Prime** · December 9th, 2003, 05:59 AM

Alright all, planning on cutting a window for my case, so I can show my PC off

.

How would I use a jigsaw to cut a hole in my case? What I mean is, what do i set it down on? I can't set it on a surface cos it's a jigsaw and will cut through the surface too!

As you've probably guessed, I'm not meant to be an engineer.

Thanks,
Adam.

[Edit]I don't mind about the cost of any equipment, I can pay for it.[/Edit]

**mksoccer** · December 9th, 2003, 06:02 AM

Sawhorses? Maybe a vise grips or a clamp of some kind? Have a really trusting friend hold it?

**RicheemxX** · December 9th, 2003, 06:04 AM

best way to go is to race the outline pf what your going to cut then drill a hole on the inside of the outline near the edge. make sure the hole is big enough for the blade...then cut away

duh richard looks like I miss read

but yeah a saw horse or blocks on the bottom of the sheetmetal. anything as long at it keeps it elevated high enough so the saw blade has enough room

**linear1** · December 9th, 2003, 05:33 PM

http://linear1.org/gm/archives/00000149.php

That's how I like to do it. But I don't own a jigsaw.

**Kuasimodem** · December 10th, 2003, 12:05 AM

If you're wondering about supporting the panel while cutting, do what I would.

Take 4 short 2x4's and build a frame the same size as the panel, set the panel on top of the frame and cut away.

You could also use duct tape around the edge to keep it from vibrating off the frame while cutting.

Also, to keep from scratching the finish on the panel, cover the are you are going to be cutting with masking tape.

For best results, run the saw at maximum speed and work slowly, so as not to deform the metal around the cut.

**zeusenergy** · December 11th, 2003, 11:14 PM

And above all, Optimus, do NOT STOP CUTTING! you might bend the side panel on restarting the blade. Dremel moto tools are also great for this job, but it will take several cut-off wheels :0)

**alivin** · December 13th, 2003, 08:48 AM

What about some 2" thick(or thicker) styrofoam under the side panel, then you could cut on any surface.
Hold the panel in place with some duct tape and clamp the foam down with some screws and big washers.
just a thought.

**gbpec7** · December 19th, 2003, 01:08 AM

If you find it too hard to use a jigsaw and you don't have a Dremel tool you could always use a nibbler. I know it's slow going but very accurate and easy to use.

**John Prophet** · December 19th, 2003, 01:18 AM

When I did it I just used a couple of two by fours and then some big clamps (cant remember exactly what kind)...I clamped the side panel,2x4,table together. I had the outside of the side panel totally covered in newspaper..I didnt use a lot of clamp pressure (but I still slightly bent it, lol). I was on the corner of a work bench and I think I had 3 clamps..2 on one edge of table and 1 one the other edge..but it could have just been 2 clamps, cant remember....it wasnt a DEAD still setup, it had some play in it but it worked ok....it wasnt as hard as I thought it was going to be.

I had pencil marked the rectangle....and used something circular to make a round corner at each corner

Started by drilling a small hole near the line on the INSIDE of the rectangle line....just a small guide hole...then I went to the bigger 3/8 or whatever drill bit to bore the hole out big enough to get the jigsaw blade in it. I actually started my guide hole too far inside and had considerable sawing to do just to get out TO the pencil line because you have to turn so gradually with the blade...so keep it in mind to start the guide hole close to the line...if you even go slighlty outside the line the rubber molding or whatever will probably cover it up just fine.

I cut what was convenient to cut and then I unclamped it all and moved it around so I could easily reach the rest of it.

And I SUCK with power tools...so if I could do it and keep all my fingers..anybody can.

I cant imagine using a dremel for this....wayy too much work....jigsaw is perfect.

Fine toothed blade.

**Darthgary** · December 20th, 2003, 02:56 AM

I would not use a jigsaw unless you have a thin case, I reccomend a Dremel or nibbler for the hole.

I used a nibbler for my case, turned out flawless.

**John Prophet** · December 20th, 2003, 02:58 AM

nibbler would be easiest in a way it seems....they dont have much torque/twist do they? You could dang near hold the thing in your lap and do it....but if someone is halfway good with a jigsaw they can do a hole or square in 15 minutes tops, lol. (dont ask how long I took, but Im a newb at power tools)

**Darthgary** · December 20th, 2003, 03:08 AM

You can get a hand nibbler for $10 on www.pcmods.com . Its the same one I used, it took me over a hour to do it with hand, but for the price, I simply could not beat. The same sight I got a rectangle window kit for $6 shipped, Dragon etch design $5 shipped, Dual blue cold cathode lights $20 Shipped.