mikeasselin
Member
Will share another tip.
When needing to install snap bushings between ribs aft of wing spar we need to get a step drill in there to drill the hole to the correct diameter. A step drill works well for these larger holes but spacing of ribs is about 4.5 inches and a drill or commercial angel drll attachment takes up too much space when coupled with a step drill.
The angle drill kits we typically purchase with our rv tool kits usually drill up to 1/4 inch and chuck is too small to mount the step drill.
Solution
Take a 5/8 diameter or larger brass (or steel) rod about 1-3/8 inch long. Drill a 1/4 inch hole in one end and 3/8 (or shank dimension of step drill) in the other end. Drill and tap set screws that will be used to secure drills in the newly drilled holes of the bushing.
To use the tool install a 1/4 short bit in the angle dril and slide over your new bushing onto the drill bit. Secure the set screw (if the hole in the bushing is long enough the set screw will bit on the shank of the drill). Now place the step drill in the other end and secure it by tightening the set screw. The assembly will fit nicely between the ribs and you are off and drilling.
Attach your angle drill to to you air or electric drill and you can start drilling holes for bushings and grommets at will.
Let me know if this is not clear and I can include a photo.
When needing to install snap bushings between ribs aft of wing spar we need to get a step drill in there to drill the hole to the correct diameter. A step drill works well for these larger holes but spacing of ribs is about 4.5 inches and a drill or commercial angel drll attachment takes up too much space when coupled with a step drill.
The angle drill kits we typically purchase with our rv tool kits usually drill up to 1/4 inch and chuck is too small to mount the step drill.
Solution
Take a 5/8 diameter or larger brass (or steel) rod about 1-3/8 inch long. Drill a 1/4 inch hole in one end and 3/8 (or shank dimension of step drill) in the other end. Drill and tap set screws that will be used to secure drills in the newly drilled holes of the bushing.
To use the tool install a 1/4 short bit in the angle dril and slide over your new bushing onto the drill bit. Secure the set screw (if the hole in the bushing is long enough the set screw will bit on the shank of the drill). Now place the step drill in the other end and secure it by tightening the set screw. The assembly will fit nicely between the ribs and you are off and drilling.
Attach your angle drill to to you air or electric drill and you can start drilling holes for bushings and grommets at will.
Let me know if this is not clear and I can include a photo.