Nose gear question

[49clipper]

I just ordered a new nose gear leg (the larger diameter one) and it came match drilled for the top bolt but has no hole for a cotter pin at the fork. Is that a new change or did they just forget to drill the hole? Anyone know. I will have to call Vans on Teusday, but I am trying to get this thing done for the customer.

[molson309]

You drill the holes after you tighten the nut to specs. This is the way the nosegear leg for my RV-7A was supplied when I had it refit for the new fork.

[cbo111]

....and take it from my experience, get a few good drill bits and lubricating oil. I went throught about 5 bits and two hours of work to get that cotterpin hole drilled. But, I guess thats a good endorsement as to the strength of that gear leg.

[flyboy1963]

I got my leg back from Harmon when I did the mod. Everyone cautioned about drilling the cotter hole, but I used a fairly new bit, a little cutting oil, and set it up on the drill press. Used a fair bit of pressure, and it cut thru in maybe 30 seconds, then went right thru the other side.
I drilled another hole about 90 degrees to that so I'd have another choice when tightening up the nut. Didn't seem to be a big deal, thankfully.
Deburr the threads after drilling to ensure the nut spins on freely.

[Richard@Langair]

That hole has never been drilled by the factory. It is supposed to be drilled once you set the breakout force for your nose fork.

If you use a good sharp drill bit and spin it slowly (300-400 RPM) with plenty of oil, it should drill through just fine. It will take some effort, but it should not be a terrible ordeal.

[Sheldon]

Sharp drill bit, slow speed, cutting oil & lots of pressure does the trick...