Tapping AEX tie down

[CaptPausert]

So I got the 3/8-16 tap for the tie downs but when I went to tap it I noticed the hole is too small for the tap. I measured it and it comes out at 0.290" the recommended drill size for a 3/8 tap is 5/16 or 0.3125" I figure I probably just need to drill it to the correct size first but thought I would check here and see if anyone knows of any reason not to? Thanks

 

[bmellis11]

You’ll have to drill it out to tap it as you’ve figured out. I used a .311 reamer that came with my tool set that I ordered from Cleaveland Tools. It enlarged the hole quickly and cleanly.

 

[Brantel]

Make proper size then tap. Be warned to use good tapping lube, go slow and back out to clear the chips often. Also don’t use a dirt cheap tap. You do not want to break a tap off in there!

Had to do these on my 7 but the 12 comes pre tapped and anodized.

 

[CaptPausert]

Ok thanks just wanted to check before I did somthing irreversible on the parts.

 

[Jonnyb]

Make proper size then tap. Be warned to use good tapping lube, go slow and back out to clear the chips often. Also don’t use a dirt cheap tap. You do not want to break a tap off in there!

Had to do these on my 7 but the 12 comes pre tapped and anodized.

If there’s a mistake to be made, I’ve made it!