unable to drive kreg screws in this project

[Robert Wolff]

Kinda new here.   Second kreg project.  Tower shelving unit.   80" tall by 15" wide.  11" deep.

Will actually have three fixed (top, middle and bottom) shelves and multiple adjustable shelves.  My concern is driving pocket hole screws in the fixed middle shelf.   Bit and driver will be too long to fit inside the project to affix one side.  Does one use a rachet set-up to run the screws in?  

Or do I need a fixed middle shelf?   Making project out of 3/4" pine; one side board is cupped a little so wanted to pull it together a bit by a fixed middle shelf.  Project is a garage storage unit; heavy objects on bottom and lighter on top.   Nothing fancy!!

Using the Highrise Condo Willy plans from here:

http://ana-white.com/2010/03/plans-simple-bookcases-in-4-sizes-the-...

or attach with nails/screws  from the outside as project suggests?  Just a garage project i guess!!  But i'm trying to gain experience using my kreg tools on a "practice" project here too.

I do have the shorter square driver bit as well but don't think even that will fit in side the "box'' either.  

Finish will either be left as is or painted when project is done

[Ken Darga]

Robert,

I use a mini-rachet, with 1/4" hex drive, for the close quarters/limited space---

also a stubby racheting screwdriver style tool---

they both work nicely.

Yes, I'd make it with a fixed middle shelf.

Also, secure the unit to the wall, or else it'll topple over.

[Robert Wolff]

Absolutely planned on securing it to the wall!! Thanks Ken!!

[KregCS]

Robert,

I would definitely recommend putting in an attached middle shelf. This will help square your piece, as well as add strength and rigidity. As far as driving the screw, you can use a mini ratchet like Ken suggested, or you can use a flex-shaft driver. This would allow you to use your drill bit outside of the shelving unit. Another option would be to purchase a 90-degree drill, which would position your drill up and down in the unit, rather than sideways where you don't have room for it. If you have any other questions, please let us know. 

[Ken Darga]

A.  Milw Tools offers this power screwdriver head. 

It Features a 1/4" hex shank that can be fitted into a drill-driver. 

B.  Another offer by DeWalt.

Either or both are available at some home centers, or the like.

[Robert Wolff]

Thanks for the 90 degree drill ideas.  Putting it together Wednesday.   Will look at the above mentioned options.  Thanks again Ken and thanks Kreg CS.  Appreciate it.

[Jeffrey Gray]

I have used a 1/4" socket with a socket wrench in tight places as you have described. A little elbow grease will be needed but you can make this happen.

Enjoy.

[james wilhelm]

Robert , they do make a short square drive bit , also have a snap on mini driver that works great  and it is cordless , if you wand I can take a pic. of it tomorrow , JIM !!

[R. E. Woods]

Ratchet screwdrivers that accept 1/4" bits

[Robert Wolff]

Thanks for the replies.   I was tickled pink today when i put the tower together and the driver and long bit fit inside the "box".  I just was almost positive it wouldn't.   Should have measured I guess (and measured twice)!!  Thanks again for the replies.  

I did make one adjustment on the above plan.  The top was to be put atop the sides.  I do not like end grain showing even on a garage project so i shortened the top to the same size as the shelves and fit it inside the sides.   Is it possible the plans call for the top shelf to be put on top of the sides for added strength?   I put it inside the sides like the rest of the shelves?  Once I put the back on, glue it and nail it I'm not too worried about this 

Is so nice to work with the Kreg joinery.   If everything is cut square your finished product comes out square.  Barely a sixteenth inch off comparing corner to corner measurements.   I like that!

[Robert Wolff]

I have ratchet screwdrivers similar to those R. E.   Looks like i need to find them in 1/4 " drive as well.   thanks for the photo and suggestions everyone...