Using Air Drill Underwater

[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.

[huskyrider]

I suggest purchasing a light wedge and not worrying about the broken screw.
Google swimming pool light wedge and see what you come up with, there are two styles I've used.

See Ya,
Kelly

[Socal_biker]

Light Wedge ($15):