Fresh water inlet

06Rinker270

Hello, needing to replace my fresh water engine flush inlet.  The one I have is missing the cap and can’t seem to find it.  I bought the one below but it requires me to bore the hole out a bit wider and made 2-3 new screw holes.  Has anyone seen this inlet before or have any other suggestions?  Thank you 

Ambassador Marine Water Inlet, 316 Stainless Steel https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00HTWP59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DCFJK80RKJC5SY3HW1Q4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Aqua_Aura

I have seen other boats with this but I don't think it's factory. You may just have to remove it or put an all new connector on. 

06Rinker270

Any suggestions on how to make the hole bigger without destroying the gel coat?  I have been told using a step bit and using it in reverse to get though gel coat.  

06Rinker270

So I should just get a larger hole saw bit and go wider?  Thanks for your help @Alswagg

earl1z19

If you are going to use a larger hole saw you will need to mount a backing piece for the pilot bit to center on or it will just make a mess of the hole you have now. 

06Rinker270

good point.  What about just a larger drill bit and slowly boring it out?

I would like to find a new inlet that fits the same dimensions but having trouble there.  

aero3113

If it’s not that much bigger, use a file or Dremel.

Dream_Inn

you could use a step bit, but have to be careful.  Something like this:

https://www.harborfreight.com/power-tools/drill-driver-bits/2-piece-titanium-nitride-coated-high-speed-steel-step-drills-96275.html

But, I agree with file or dremel if it's not much bigger.

Spyderweb

I’ve used a dremel to increase the size of speaker holes.  Dremel would be quick work for that small hole.

06Rinker270

oh I like that idea

mattie

Dremel vote here too. (Dremel Multi-purpose Spiral Cutting Bit)

06Rinker270

and you just run that long the edge in a circle motion slowly shaving off?  Sorry for my 20 Qs, makes me nervous working on gel coat and splitting.  I will tape. 

YYZRC

The Dremel makes a heII of a mess. My vote is for hole saw. Easy to make a template out of a scrap piece of plywood. 

davidbrooks

how to use a larger hole bit - Google Search

Dream_Inn

davidbrooks said:

how to use a larger hole bit - Google Search

ok, that is just so easy and smart!  I agree to do this method, hands down!!

aero3113

WoW!! I like that!!

YYZRC

Genius!

Willhound

Freaking brilliant! I've always used a chunk of plywood on the back. Will do this from now on!

Spyderweb

That is brilliant.  If using the Dremel method, I always have a vacuum cleaner nozzle right next to my work to cut down the dust.

mattie

@davidbrooks that is a cool idea. Definitely remember that one. Be great for wood core door handles.

@06Rinker270 - I'd probably just buzz that hole a bit bigger with the Dremel. Literally only take you 30 sec once the old water inlet is removed. As @YYZRC said - have a ShopVac handy.....all good.