Using Air Drill Underwater

[aswetich]

Everything you said makes sense. Don't they make a long wire like extension that you can attache to a drill ? Maybe I could use a cordless above the waterline with the lony 3' flex extenstion on the bit. If I bring the water level down to the screw I wonder what the chances are of getting it out with a left handed bit ?? Where can I get a left handed bit ? (Sears)

Thanks

[INLANDSMOG]

Just a piece of advice from an auto tech who has seen many broken bolts, if the screw or bolt was cross threaded while tightening and the head broke off, don't use an extractor, odds are it will break then you will have a piece of hardened steel embedded in your screw (not fun). The left handed drill bit is the first thing I would try, making sure you are PERFECTLY centered, if it doesn't come out, then it's time to get a tap of the same size and tap new threads, sometimes you may have to go bigger and/or a different pitch.
Good luck

[aswetich]

My light Niche is Plastic with a metal sleeve imbedded where the screw goes. Here is my latest plan.

1. Get a 90 Degree drill bit accessory. Harbor Freight $10
2. Get three 12" drill bit extentions. 3 @ $8 each = $ 24
3. Left handed bit. ($5 ??)
4. Have a buddy on the diving board with cordless drill while I push on the bit where the 90 degree drill bit accessory is.

Can I get a left handed bit at Sears ?? All I seem to be able to find are the left handed screw extractors ?? I am assuming the screw is stainless so will I need a special bit ? Any comments on my latest plan ? For $50 I think it is worth a shot .....

[Ready2swim]

There is NO REASON in the world why your air drill wouldnt work under water. It would be a lot easier to just use this method rather than have a budy holding the drill above water. (Note: if you do use this method please take pictures because I would love to see it...should be a good laugh) not to mention the safety issues with trying to coordinate your timing..."ok drill, ouch STOP"!

The air drill will work just fine, you will have a little bit of oil but most likely it wouldnt be a problem...since you are aware of harbor freight pick up a few oil pads that you can set on top of the water and it will soak up whatever residule you have in no time at all. The bubbles will be a bit of a problem but if you have a snorkel mask that would solve that problem since the exaust will be above the drill bit.

I would suggest a left hand drill bit and keep in mind you must have a steady hand or the fixture will be ruined forever.

Let us know what you decide to do...

[aswetich]

As you described the diving board method I actually could see it happing just like that and I could not stop laughing !!! I think I will try the drill in a bucket 1st (Also will get rid of the largest amount of oil) and if that works I will go for it. Plan "B" will be the "Diving Board" method and Plan "C" will be the drain down. I will be doing this tommorow so any other sugestions would be appreatated.

[Poconos]

Something else I just thought of...a Helicoil. For those that don't know it's a coil type insert that gives you the original thread when the hole is damaged. Available at auto stores. Kit comes in different thread sizes with a special size drill, tap, and an insertion tool. My only question would be the coil itself standing up to the water and chemical environment.
Al

[GHM]

I had to do a similar drilling job underwater. I just took my old Makita cordless down in the water and drilled away. Worked fine.
Afterwards I blew the excess water out with a compressor and the drill has worked fine ever since.