Notching Rim After Floor Installed

jakejorgenson

I took over a project that had been sitting for 2 years because the owner had previously ran out of money. This is a log home that has settling rods that run through the logs. They are 5/8" all thread that have to have a spring and a nut on each end. The former contractor did not finish this part of the work before the project was stopped and we now have to do this. 8 of these connections are up against the rim joist on the inside (the logs sit on top of the rim) and the outside already has a deck with a ledger so we have to work from inside. We have to notch the rim joist around these sections of all thread but with the floor already installed and the joists and rim already installed, it is cramped space to get anything in there to make the notches to allow the washer and the nuts to have space for installation. Most of the all thread rods are literally right against the inside side of the rim joist. We tried a chisel and hammer but you can't swing the hammer. We tried a chain saw but that is not safe due to exhaust fumes and the bucking it was doing. We tried a sawzall but couldn't get it to dive into the rim because we can't get a steep enough angle on it for the blade to grab. I also tried using a forstner bit and then prying around it. Any suggestions on how we might do this? Dremmel tool or something? Any suggestions would be helpful.

A. Spruce

What do you mean? I was going to suggest drilling the spots as long as the all thread and other metal objects aren't in the way. If all else fails, drill 2 smaller holes on either side where you want the hole and then finish up with a sawzall.

LEVELBEST

Fein Multimaster. You can turn the blade at any direction you need to in order to get in areas that are very confined to do plunge cutting.

One of the most useful tools in my shop or trailer.

http://www.fein.de/fein-multimaster/...ster_video.php

__________________
Level Best, LLC(Custom Cabinets and Wood Products). Level Best Home Builders, LLC(Custom Homes and Remodeling).

jlhaslip

electric chain saw

Cjeff

Not sure exactly what you mean. Maybe multiple drilled holes and a chisel?

Ashcon

I second levelbest's idea,you can get into the joist cavity and plunge the blade on each side of the threaded rod.

Cut out a relief you may find that the blades are flexible enough to arch the cut. If not follow up with a chisel and hammer. Once you make the cuts you should be able to tap the waste out, even with the limited access.
FYI if you don't own or can't afford a fein MM you can get cheap knock off from harbour freight for about $ 40.00 blades are $7-$10.
Good luck Chad

Rustbucket

How about power chisel? They aren't cheap, but I would think they would work. If you can, take a pic of the area so we can see what you are trying to do. I think I understand, but since you say drilling holes and prying doesn't work, I may have the wrong picture in my mind.

The Fein Multimaster mentioned by LEVELBEST is a good idea too.