Drilling Axle Holes for BSA axles

[Stumpm2]

For the people that use a Silver Bullet Pro to drill axle holes, do you use the same tool to drill axle holes for the smaller BSA axles with a #44 bit. I am worried there will be too much slop for precision alignment with the #44 bit. Trying to decide on a block or a Silver Bullet. I like the idea of the block for the price and flexibility, but I think the Silver Bullet Pro would be more consistent. Thanks.

 

[Ballistic Racing]

Definitely go with the Silver Bullet Pro. You'll save yourself hours of aggravation. You can still use a #43 for the scout axles. They won't fit quit as snug as a pro axle but but they'll still hold.

 

[Boydog]

For the people that use a Silver Bullet Pro to drill axle holes, do you use the same tool to drill axle holes for the smaller BSA axles with a #44 bit. I am worried there will be too much slop for precision alignment with the #44 bit. Trying to decide on a block or a Silver Bullet. I like the idea of the block for the price and flexibility, but I think the Silver Bullet Pro would be more consistent. Thanks.

We have to use blocks with slots. If using a BSA block I sand the bottom off some so I can get into the uncut wood. the slots still show, but you can get a solid hole for the axles.

 

[Skywalker Racing]

Definitely go with the Silver Bullet Pro. You'll save yourself hours of aggravation. You can still use a #43 for the scout axles. They won't fit quit as snug as a pro axle but but they'll still hold.

+1

If your holes seem too lose, put a drop of water or wood glue into them. It'll swell the wood and snug things up a bit.

 

[DerbyDad4Hire]

I use the Pro all the time for scout axles. They fit perfect.

 

[Stumpm2]

Thanks. Sounds like the #43 drill bit and the Silver Bullet Pro will be fine for BSA axles.

 

[gdurban]

Thanks. Sounds like the #43 drill bit and the Silver Bullet Pro will be fine for BSA axles.

I have the same rules. I used Silver Bullet Pro with #43. I used toothpick to put some wood glue in holes and they were good to go. I had to do this again after removing to re-prep for districts, but again they performed well.

I like your idea about sanding down the bottom to drill in fresh wood. I will try that next year. Instead, I filled slots with wood epoxy and after sanding everything flat, drilled holes. But, I did have some problems with this approach, so will use your idea next year.