drill and tap frame for hugger/fender mount??

[bikeboy]

Well, after I had my frame prepared and painted, I've changed my mind on the way I'm going to mount the rear deflector/hugger/fender. I have a sheet of aluminium bent and cut to fit between the 2 rear sub frame rails, but of course I don't have any mounting tabs welded in place to screw it to. What's the consensus on drilling and taping 3 M5 holes on each side to mount some L brackets to??

cheers
ian

 

[rockcitycafe]

fine unless you're racing, but then the stock frame probably isn't good enough anyway

 

[Uniac]

I'd trust rivot threaded inserts a bit more, I don't think there is enough material in the frame for proper thread engagement , ideally you want 1.5x thread diameter...in reality try to get at least 1x thread diameter for depth.

 

[crazypj]

Rivnuts would be best but they will need a larger hole
you could try drilling a 1/8" hole to see how thick frame is?

 

[bikeboy]

Rivnuts would be best but they will need a larger hole
you could try drilling a 1/8" hole to see how thick frame is?

good info guys. esp the thread depth to diameter ratio. I was more concerned with the holes compromising the integrity of the frame, but it seems like this is not a big issue if suggestions are to drill larger holes? I really don't want to have to repaint the frame after welding if I can avoid it.

cheers
ian