I posted this question in the "Appearance Products" Forum without much response, so I figured I'd try here. Anyway, I'm looking at putting a hugger on my 1k because my pretty undertail is getting nicked up. The hugger i want requires drilling the swing arm for installation. I was wondering if this will somehow degrade the "quality" of the swing arm or keep me off a track. Is it okay to do?

Nope. I imagine the holes can't be but a maxiumum of 3/16" in size, right?

It'll be ok. The bolt you put in the hole will actually act to re-stiffen the area of the hole you made. You're ok.

-J

If you REALLY REALLY REALLY want to do it, make sure that you use a variable speed drill. You need to keep the metal as cool as possible to help prevent any distortion what so ever. Also use some cutting compound or hi temp lube.

Just remember that if the swingarm goes out even 0.5 of a mm, it's no good any more.

Tech.

yeah, what they said http://www.gixxer.com/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

I am not trying to sound disagreeable, but heat-warping shoudln't even come into play, even if you used a drill spinning at 5000rpms. These bikes are made fomr high tensile aluminum, drill bits just shave it away. But likewise, I agree with using a slow speed drill and some cutting lube to reduce the chances of making a scarred hole.

Also, use a punch to mark exactly where you are gonna drill. This also helps prevent drill bit drift while you are trying to get the hole started. Begin with an exceptionally slow rotation until you get the hole started well.

-J

They do make huggers for the 1K that don't require any drilling or mods to the bike.

could you list some please? http://www.gixxer.com/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

I make a couple holes on the swing arm to install my hugger... don't be scared,, unless you make a 2" hole,, don't be too picky!!!

azazel_K4 said:
I make a couple holes on the swing arm to install my hugger... don't be scared,, unless you make a 2" hole,, don't be too picky!!!


Which hugger did you use?

Skizit750 said:
I am not trying to sound disagreeable, but heat-warping shoudln't even come into play, even if you used a drill spinning at 5000rpms. These bikes are made fomr high tensile aluminum, drill bits just shave it away. But likewise, I agree with using a slow speed drill and some cutting lube to reduce the chances of making a scarred hole.

Also, use a punch to mark exactly where you are gonna drill. This also helps prevent drill bit drift while you are trying to get the hole started. Begin with an exceptionally slow rotation until you get the hole started well.

-J


Any suggestions on drill bit types or cutting lube?

I like carbide bits just for the sake of being able to use them for anything. I wouldn't go out and buy them special for this project or anything.

I've worked on airplanes for a couple years now and have spent ALOT of time working with alclad aluminum. Don't worry about lube. If you have a good sharp drill bit it'll punch through so fast the shavings will keep it cool. The only thing i recommend is to mask the area around it off with masking tape. Cover like 6 inches around the area your going to drill. Remember aluminum corrodes in no time if unprotected. Do everything in your power to keep the finish on your swingarm. Just go nice and slow. Don't force the bit. Let it do the work. Always remember the harder the material the harder you force.

what kind of fastener do you recommend? screws? aluminum rivets?

you could just get a targa hugger and avoid all the problems because they do not require holes

gee that's alot of help considering i already have the hugger. that doesn't really answer my question either

i used small sheet metal screws

If you can find them get yourself some rivnuts. You should be able to get them from home depot or lowes or something. This way you could use a machine screw.