Joe wrote:
On Oct 10, 7:52 pm, "Colbyt" wrote:
I own most of the tools and would hate to buy a new one for this
project but take your best shot at the best way and tool to do this
and I will go from there.

I have not actually measured it but I think the main trunk line I
need to cut is 12x18, might be 12x24. Standard gauge metal HVAC duct
from 40+ years ago. I have reasonable access on all four sides. Well
that one side is going to be a b**** but I can do it once if I must.
Most likely, I want to return the duct to its original position
after the project is completed.. I might choose to step it up to
make it easier on the next fat guy. But that part I can figure out.

I can't unzip it at the seams without a lot of digging in 60+ year
dried dirt as the next seam is resting on the ground. Hey, I did not
do the original install. If I had it would be far different.

So what I want is a clean way to cut the duct without destroying the
metal on either side of the cut. As an example: much like cutting
the four sides of a wood box with a table saw.

Now to inject a little humor to the thread; the reason I want to do
this is because my belly has grown to big and my back to bad to
scoot under the tunnel I made years ago in this crawl space. Did I
mention I hate tight crawl spaces.

Suggest a diet and die. There isn't time or the willpower to make it
happen. I got to get over there to figure out where the water leak
is coming from. Go ahead and make your fat guy jokes if you must.
Paybacks can be awesome. -

--
Colbyt
Please come visithttp://www.househomerepair.com

HVAC pros and sheet metal journeymen use double cut snips. See Wiss
HM41V at Amazon or air powered version 98680 at Harbor Freight, around
$35 for either. Cutting duct work with real tools will always work
best. There are electric models also from several manufacturers, but
for the DIY person a double cut nibbler like the Grizzly G4956 might
be easiest to use in a confined space. None of these will make a mess
like an angle grinder or Dremel.

The smell remailing from using an abrasive blade will definately be obnoxious
for awhile.