easy question - recommendation on bolt-cutting tool

[LookingForCruiser]

Hi all,

An easy question -

I have some bolts that are sticking way too far into the cabin that I want to cut down to just above the nut. What tool do you use for doing that?

Thanks!

[Naughtylus]

if you have the opportunity, I would mark the bolts at the point that they project beyond the nuts, take the bolts out, put them in a vise, and cut them to the correct length using a hacksaw or a disc grinder. File the edges of the threads clean and replace them.
Any other attempt to cut them while they're still in place is likely to result in damaging the nuts, and just making a mess.
It's usually the way that a few extra minutes spent doing it properly will save hours of putting it right and cursing your poor decision to take a shortcut!

[btrayfors]

Do it in place. A Dremel tool with a cutting wheel will do the trick. Been doing it for years, cutting up to 1/2" s/s bolts. Just yesterday, I cut 4 1/4" bolts down to the fiber-washer nuts.

Besides, if you don't already have one a Dremel tool is very useful for other projects aboard :-)

Be sure to wear eye-protection gear.

Bill

[capn_dave]

Acron nuts over your regular nuts? The acorn nuts have a rounded end on them.
Depending on the size of your bolts, you can use a Dremmel tool with a cut- off wheel.
Fair Winds

Dave

[LookingForCruiser]

I want to put the headliner back without leaving a lump, so acorn nuts are out of the picture. They're small screws holding down the through-deck mast plug.

[imiloa]

If the bolts are easily accessible why not remove them (one-by-one) and replace them with shorter ones?

[LookingForCruiser]

Because the stores & chandleries around here are lacking in the particular length I would need, and I want them flush with the nuts so the headliner has minimal bulging.

[arf145]

I've used my cordless Dremel with cutoff wheel for exactly that. You can put a box around it to catch some of the debris.

[pdqaltair]

Originally Posted by LookingForCruiser

Hi all,

An easy question -

I have some bolts that are sticking way too far into the cabin that I want to cut down to just above the nut. What tool do you use for doing that?

Thanks!

Not trying to be cute, but it will work fine and not through dust. They cut flush on one side.

The threads will be straightened whenever you take the nuts off. No worries. Been there.

[donradclife]

Another vote for the Dremel tool and cutoff wheel.