punching cartos

[jnnfrlsw]

I am trying to punch additional holes in a prepunched flanged smoketech carto. The punches I have seen (ex. COV)wont work on those with the flange. You have to insert the carto from the connector end. I have had 2 different saddlevalves and all they do is slip to the side of the carto. Wont stay centered to make the punch. I am trying to use my dremel but end up cutting too deep and slicing the center tube. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.

 

[sparklewolf]

Siam Mods Carto Punch

should do the job

 

[alphanumeric]

Lowes/home depot will sell a 5$ self piercing saddle valve. You can find it in the plumbing dept.

 

[markfm]

Jnn, check pif, I posted a thread on a diy carto punch that works really well, consists of a $5 hub and a 1/4-20 sheet metal screw.

 

[jnnfrlsw]

Siam Mods Carto Punch

should do the job

Thank you, I just placed my order.

 

[ozpkchris]

is it just me or does 15 bucks + Shipping seem like a lot for that

 

[markfm]

The one I posted would run $10 - $11 total (incl. Shipping), or $8 total if mod provides the homedepot part number for the kit with the mirror screws that he found.

 

[ozpkchris]

The one I posted would run $10 - $11 total (incl. Shipping), or $8 total if mod provides the homedepot part number for the kit with the mirror screws that he found.

thank you,

 

[yo vapo]

I don't understand. I've been using my tapping saddle & valve from Home Depot for easily a couple of months now and I experience none of the slippage you mention. :/ I make sure the carto is centered under the punch and I screw the clamp down tightly. Never once had a problem.

 

[markfm]

I absolutely believe many have used, and been happy with, the saddle valve. I tried two different ones, the standard homedepot one and an aluminum block version off amazon. I found them a real pain, too much like work, which is why I used a dremel for 6 months. I came up with the hub and screw because I know people who don't have dremels and were less than thrilled with saddle valves.

Nothing wrong with the valve, but if someone doesn't like it this is an option. With the hub you don't have to mess around with adjusting the valve clamp screws, centering the carto, etc.