Modifying Do It Molds

[smoothlures]

Anyone got any tips on how to change a Do It mold that calls for 575 aberdeen hooks to 635 saltwater hooks? What do you cut away the extra metal with once you figure out what you need to cut?

[rockmike]

I used a Dremmel to modify a mold.

[slabbandit]

Thinking about getting a "blank" Do-It mold and having it machined to mold a design that I have in mind. I have a good friend, (machinist), that said he would help me if I decide to try it. I wouldn't think of trying it by myself but what you're talking about may not be too difficult.

[LedHed]

I use a dremel, also, with a grinding tip (don't know the part no.) to take off eye posts and a jewelers file to open up the hook slot. Go extra slow - take off a little at time.

SB
There is a big difference in altering a model and having a custom mold made. Your machinist friend will tell you it ain’t cheap – his time, set up, if it’s CNC – programming… and you still have to buy the blank. But you do get a true custom jig for your return.

I like Shawn Collins custom molds – has a great web site and a quality product – made in America.

[beenfishin?]

what ledhead said. I modified mine to hold up to #1 hook. I like big hooks!

[1aB]

My hands not steady enuf for a Dremel, so I use this:
MICROLUX 3-SPEED STANDARD DUTY DRILL PRESS

Good source of cutter bits:
Burrs and Cutters for Dremel rotary tools: Widget Supply

What mold(s) do you need to modify?

[smoothlures]

1/8th - 5/8th oz Ultra Minnow mold to accept saltwater hooks instead of aberdeen.

[CrappieKillerJigs]

i took a 1/8-1/4 do it mold and drilled it and filed to fit 635's and it works great and the thing i like about it is i can still use 575's in it also....just drill out the eyelet hole to the size you need and file out the hook shank gap a lil and you will be ready to go....if you do it right you will still be able to use 575's in it also....tools i used....cordless drill,1/8 drill bit and dremel with a cutting disc

[1aB]

If you have the Ultra Minnow Jig SHR-5-A mold it's setup to accept Gami 604s which are pretty close to 635s. For example the 604 1/0 is comparable sized with the 635 #2 & tho I don't have the mold would guess just might interchange. If not, enlarging the eye slots would be a minimal modification if you're comfortable with a rotary cutting tool. Upsizing hooks gets more involved & might require widening the shank and eye stem slots to fit heavier wire gauge. The Gami 604s are light salt water capable - too expensive?

[smoothlures]

Sounds pretty easy then. Thanks fellas. I'll try it when I get my hooks so I don't take too much off.