Drilling Frame Question

[dyran]

I want to make fairings for my bike this summer and I was wondering if I should weld brackets on or if I should drill small holse for the brackets? Has anyone here made their own fairings?

[Blueknyt]

small holes would be best IF placed correctly, you can always fill them in with brazing, arcwelding, or epoxy should you want them to go away. just watch where you drill

[furball]

If you drill into the frame, make sure you get enough edge distance on both sides of the hole...If the the hole is drilled too close to an edge there is a good chance you could start a crack, which may end up junking out the frame until some nice weld repairs are made...Just try and place all holes in the middle and you should be fine...and be certain that is where it goes b4 you drill....good luck

[GeeP]

Definately drill close to the center of the members.  Also, drill in the center of the portion of the member in shear.  This area is not load bearing.  Never drill on the portions in tension and compression (such as the flange of an I-beam).  This portion of the section carries the majority of the load drilling into it will weaken it more than drilling the web in almost any location.

For aligining the holes you might try some back side transfer pins.  All you do is place one in the hole, place the part where you want it and tap lightly.  The pin will leave a punch mark at the precise center of the hole.  

Oh yeah...  Measure **at least twice** and drill once!