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[texasrob]

Hi, I joined to get some good ideas about homemade projects. The commercial items available seem to have missing functions so I like the DIY approach. I work in commercial A/C assembly and making your own tools ( usually torch tips) nas always interested me.

[Jon]

Hi texasrob - welcome to HomemadeTools.net

Sounds like you'll fit in well here

What's next up on your projects list? Can we help out with any ideas?

[texasrob]

Hi texasrob - welcome to HomemadeTools.net

Sounds like you'll fit in well here

What's next up on your projects list? Can we help out with any ideas?

My current project involves a moveable base for a tool chest in the bed of my pickup. I might have to do some cutting of hardened steel rails. Is there a best approach to doing this?

[G.Paul]

Steel rails if they are rail road rails have a lot of chrome in them. To cut them will not be a easy task. A torch will work if you just need a rough cut. You can also use a metal abrasif cut of wheel. Bed frames are made from recycled rail road rails. I cut some bed frames on my metal horizontal cut of saw. I used several blades to finish the job

[marsheng]

If you can make an impression with a hand file, hacksaw the rods and adding coolant is a good idea. If not, use one of those 1 mm angle grinder blades. Cut all the way round to a good depth and you can normally snap off the remaining bit.

Cheers Wallace

[djhart]

Hi Texasrob

Yes, the thin angle grinder cut off wheels should do the job. You will need a few.
Regards David

[rdefayette]

Hi, I joined to get some good ideas about homemade projects. The commercial items available seem to have missing functions so I like the DIY approach. I work in commercial A/C assembly and making your own tools ( usually torch tips) nas always interested me.

Welcome teaxasrob. Is there anyway possible to post up a picture or drawing of the rail profile you want to cut? How you end up going about this (best/easiest/cleanest?) will depend/vary with the actual profile/thickness of the "rail" you want to cut. So far the best way has already been recommended, abrasive cut off wheels are usually the easiest way to this. Take it slow and take small amounts/cut depth will work best to save wheels and get an accurate cut. NO binding allowed.