Substitute for thread tapping oil

[JohnZ]

I need to drill a hole in my new Longhorn for the probe grommet, I have a new stepped drill bit coming but I do not have any Tap Magic. Is there something else I can use?
3in1 or ATF?
Comments/ concerns.
cheers

[gandrfab]

Water is better than dry when in a bind and it needs drilling.
motor oil
3 in 1
ATF
WD40
In that order
Little background I have been metal fabricating for a living the past 27 years.
If you're not drilling a ton of holes having a dedicated cutting oil is not important.

Better that water acquire one of the house hold candles spin the bit on it cold, start drilling then pull the bit out ever 10 to 20 revolutions and dip the cutting edge/edges on the wax candle.

Enjoy.

[gandrfab]

Oh and drilling holes in steel go as big as you can with drill bits, then use the step bit if needed.

[dmike25]

gandrfab fab is spot on with both of his replies. The main thing is to avoid drilling dry, gotta keep the tool cool! Drilling slowly will help as well. A proper size bit is always better than a step drill, especially in thinner (less than 1/4") material. Good luck with your project John!
_________________
Mike

[JohnZ]

Thanks for the response. I've got some 3'n1 somewhere maybe even some ATF and brake fluid.
Predrilling with a large bit prior to using the stepped bit is something I also considered since I don't have anything that big it would still help.

[gandrfab]

I recommend against using brake fluid.

A step bit and step drilling are 2 different animals.
You do not want to center punch then start hand drilling a 3/8th' hole, usually burns up bits and makes drilling un-enjoyable.
I would, (using 2 flute drill bits) start with a 1/8th" bit
then 3/16" or 1/4" depending on what's available and how well the bits are cutting.
Then increase bit size about 1/8" to 3/16" until desired size is reached.

[gandrfab]

How did the drilling go?