Wow you all had some real good ideas. The hollow bit and plug was my choice, but I think prevention is a key for all of us . Centering hinge holes with a Vix bit and drilling a pilot hole of the proper size is a must, but I like”tapping” the hole out with a same size steel screw first. I learned something new today again!!!!
One error I found out on Vix type bits. Always check to see that the tapered sliding portion of the Vix bit does NOT protrude through the hinge . If it does, It will not center the screw. It will go where that end first hits the wood. If it does stick through, remove the drill bit and carefully grind off just enough of the end of that tapered section so it is not sticking through. This will let the taper find the “pocket” and truly center the drill.
-- Jim Jakosh.....Practical Wood Products...........Learn something new every day!!
