What options if not comfy cutting the pot

Like everyone else really looking to go electric. What options do I have if I don't want to cut the kettle myself?

I don't have a punch so adding to the bill with the tools. Just trying to see what else I can do.

I know of one manufacturer who is planning to produce a 240V, 5500 Watt element that hangs over the side of your brew pot. But it's just in the design stage right now.

Option 1: buy tools (punch, step bit, whatever you chose yo use) and DIY.
Option 2: Take it to a machine shop, pay them to do it.
Option 3: Find a friend with the tools to borrow.
Option 4: Buy a pre-fabbed kettle like the Blichman

In the overall scheme of things 1 is not that expensive, 2 and 4 will likely be quite expensive, and 3 depends entirely on your social circle.

Assuming you already have a drill, for about $12 one of these works just fine:

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-202327734/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=1+1%2F4+hole+saw&storeId=10051

You do need a drill with a big enough chuck to hold a 1/2 inch bit though.

Edit: I just re-read your post, are you uncomfortable with cutting a hole in your pot or just feel the tools you need would be too expensive? Do a search on heat-sticks and you'll find an option for electric heating without installing an element directly to your pot. I think they'll work fine but it's probably easier/cheaper to do the direct install even if you have to buy a drill. Plus then you'll have a drill that will last you a lifetime.

100,000 members here. Use your network.

Do it the right way the first time. If you don't have the tools and/or not comfy with it, have someone here help you. They will. Do it the right way the first time.

Thanks. Spent some more time reading how Kal did it and realized it's not as daunting and the only thing i need is the punch. Will be embarking on this endeavor when the 1 year old daughter and SWMBO allows.

The punches are great but expensive. If you can borrow one, use it. Otherwise, go the hole saw route.

When I used the hole saw on my panel it was hard to keep it straight and I kinda gouged out the holes somewhat. What's the best way to use these? And does the 1 1/4" saw make a hole that size or bigger?

I don't know the tolerance requirements on standard hole saws so I don't know if they are bigger or smaller than 1-1/4". It doesn't matter, the important thing is that the 1-1/4" saw makes the right sized hole for a standard 1" heating element. You'll also need a 1 inch SS lock-nut and a silicone O-ring if you don't already have them.

There's nothing really special about keeping the drill straight. Just try to keep the pressure even on all sides.

by using a drill press.

it is a lot easier to "drift" when doing it by hand. It can be done.

Chris

My drill press slowest speed is around 5-600rpm, too fast for metal.

i would use a step bit over a hole saw. With that said I found someone (through here) that let me borrow a punch

I think I am going to get a pot from High Gravity and have them do that hole. Thanks for all the input everyone.

I ended up getting a neiko step bit from amazon for 13 bucks.