How do you extend the reach of a drill? (1 Viewer)

[CharlieS]

I snapped off a bolt and have another with a rounded head holding my gas tank skid. If they were accessible, I'd just drill and tap them. Unfortunately, I can't reach them with a drill. Do any of you have tips or trick for extending the reach of a drill bit? I imagine an extended length extension with a chuck at the end, but my google searches are coming up empty. There are plenty of extensions for 1/4" hex (I own several), but I don't know how to attach a HSS drill (metal bit) to them.

 

[KLF]

I have one similar to this, that's about 18" long. Works well.

Amazon product ASIN B0009X4VX0

 

[LINUS]

If you weld/have a buddy who does, I’ve welded bits to round stock - as reatively slow as any drill -RPM is, it’s just fine.

I’ve never done it for die grinder type speeds - they spin too fast.

 

[Travis 76]

Home Depot Lowe’s sells drill bits that have a 1/4 hex end on them. If that is easier for you.

 

[PDoyle]

I know Harbor Freight has ratchet extension sets.
I found a 12" steel extension with a drill bit attached at the end , see attached. Great tool. Can't remember where I bought it though.

 

[CharlieS]

I know Harbor Freight has ratchet extension sets.
I found a 12" steel extension with a drill bit attached at the end , see attached. Great tool. Can't remember where I bought it though.

View attachment 2239482

All good options, thanks all!

This item pictured above is what I was imagining. Any idea what it is called?

 

[LC Parts Yard]

DEWALT MAXFIT 6 in. Bit Extension-DWA6EXTMF - The Home Depot

DEWALT Extensions help to provide increased accessibility in fastening and drilling applications. The extensions feature a quick-release mechanism for ease of use. The ring magnet enables users to complete

www.homedepot.com

Maybe this is something similar?

-Fin

 

[CharlieS]

DEWALT MAXFIT 6 in. Bit Extension-DWA6EXTMF - The Home Depot

DEWALT Extensions help to provide increased accessibility in fastening and drilling applications. The extensions feature a quick-release mechanism for ease of use. The ring magnet enables users to complete

www.homedepot.com

Maybe this is something similar?

-Fin

Yes, similar, but for 1/4" shank bits. My good metal drills don't have hex shanks.

 

[LC Parts Yard]

Yes, similar, but for 1/4" shank bits. My good metal drills don't have hex shanks.

*facepalm*

 

[619TOY]

12” drill bit? (Aircraft bit)

 

[kulangot]

Get an Aircraft bit - super long and flexible. Home Depot sells them in ⅛ - I buy them all of the time.

Amazon product ASIN B00004RGYL

 

[CharlieS]

Thanks everyone. This should get me out of my bind. Much appreciated.

 

[razzyrazz]

Flexible impact bit holder? Works well for me, impact drill bits are pretty cheap if you don't have them.

 

[Hothonda]

Bellhanger bit (Amazon etc)

 

[CharlieS]

Closing the loop, I used these two things:

It is an extension, and a small chuck with a hex shank. It worked great.

Enkay 584-C Drill Extension Set,... Amazon product ASIN B0009X4VX0
3/8” Drill Chuck with 1/4” Quick... Amazon product ASIN B081M3NR13
They worked well.

Thanks for the help, guidance and recommendations!

I bought some of those long drill bits too, but this setup worked better since I could start with a small bit and work my way up in size until I got to the right size for my tap.