Tools
You will need the following tools to complete this project:
Scissors
7/64" Drill bit
5/32" Drill bit
7/32" Drill bit
3/8" Drill bit
5/8" Drill bit
10-32 Tap
6-32 Tap
Metal File
Punch
In addition you will need some cutting oil and painters tape
Support Files
Drawing Files: I am providing these files for convenience only. They are exports from Vcarve Pro.
Template: Printable layout template (Version 1.1 Easier to Print)
Step 1
In addition to the tools, you will need a 5" x 5.5" x 1/2" piece of aluminum stock, like the one shown here.
You will also need to print the Z-Plate template. Once printed cut out the template.
The stock can be purchased from online metals, but I will also provide a piece of stock that will have better cuts.
Step 2
Use blue painters tape, and attach the template to the stock as shown here.
The actual placement of the template on the stock has a lot of latitude. It's the relationship of the actual holes to one-another that is important.
Step 3
With an auto-punch, mark each hole location.
Step 4
Using a 7/64" drill bit, drill a pilot hole in each of the marks you just made.
The stock with the 14 pilot holes should look like the one shown here.
Step 5
Using a 5/32" drill bit, enlarge the four holes marked with 5/32" on the template.
Later these holes will be tapped with a 10-32 tap.
Step 6
Using a 7/32" drill bit, enlarge the holes marked 7/32". Also enlarge the holes marked 3/8". Enlarging the 3/8” marked holes will make them easier to drill later.
Step 7
Using a 3/8" drill bit, enlarge the holes marked 3/8"
Step 8
Once all the holes are drill counter sink the holes slightly with a larger drill bit. Here I am using a 5/8" drill bit to do this. Be sure to hit both sides of the hole.
It is recommended that this step is done on the 3/8" holes to keep the shoulders on the mounting screws from hitting the plate when in stalled. The other holes are optional.
Step 9
Use a metal file to clean the cut edges of the stock. This is an optional step.
Step 10
Use a 10-32 tap to tap the four holes marked 5/32"
When tapping holes be very careful, as a broken tap will ruin the part. Use oil when tapping, and withdraw every turn or so to remove debris.
Step 11
Use a 6-32 tap to tap the two holes marked 7/64"
Step 12
To create a brushed finish, hit all sides of the completed part with an orbital sander and 200 grit paper. This step is completely optional.
Completed Z-plate
This completes the Z-plate. Follow the instructions in the KRMx02 workbook for installation.