Saved From Scrap

Mocking up and installing the first crossmember. Also trimmed up my 10' sleeve into 5' ones for each side.

 

Well I just noticed I have the lower gussets upside down. I just assumed the last owner butchered it together but a quick Google search shows they need to be flipped over. Glad I haven't drilled the holes yet.

 

The rail? I ran a string down the side of it and its pretty close. Could just be the blending where the 2 rails meet.

 

Drilled and installed crossmember #1 of 3 today. Just under 5 hours start to finish. Not too bad considering I've never ever laid out and drilled a frame before. Best part is everything is straight and square. Even all 12 holes lined up perfectly.
Even the midship bearing on the driveshaft bolts right up into place like it should.

 

Just a good ol' 1/2" D-handle Makita. I drilled them all 1/4" first, then went back and ran the 1/2" drill bit through. Actually wasn't all that bad doing it by hand. Just took a little time. I'll be renting a mag drill for the rest of them though. Easier on the arms lol.

 

I'll give that a shot next time.