Match Drilling a New Tailwheel to an Existing Hole
Posted: Sun May 31, 2020 10:38 amInstalling a new tailwheel assembly onto an existing tailwheel rod requires the builder to match-drill the new tailwheel pivot assembly to the existing hole in the titanium rod. This can be a challenge because the new pivot covers the existing hole from view once slid onto the rod. Fitting this accurately requires a jig to ensure a tight fit.
A simple jig can be fabricated similar to the photos below (original source: Steve Sonex #892, viewtopic.php?f=45&p=42813#p42804). The jig ensures the 1/4" drill bit will remain perfectly aligned with the existing hole while you drill the new pivot.
For even greater accuracy drilling the new pivot holes, insert a reducing bushing (1/4" OD x 1/8" ID) into the jig hole and use a 1/8" bit to pilot drill the new holes. Once the pilot holes are located using the bushing, the bushing can be removed from the jog and the holes up-sized to 1/4".
Jeff
Keywords: tailwheel upgrade, match drilling
A simple jig can be fabricated similar to the photos below (original source: Steve Sonex #892, viewtopic.php?f=45&p=42813#p42804). The jig ensures the 1/4" drill bit will remain perfectly aligned with the existing hole while you drill the new pivot.
For even greater accuracy drilling the new pivot holes, insert a reducing bushing (1/4" OD x 1/8" ID) into the jig hole and use a 1/8" bit to pilot drill the new holes. Once the pilot holes are located using the bushing, the bushing can be removed from the jog and the holes up-sized to 1/4".
Jeff
Keywords: tailwheel upgrade, match drilling