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As as matter of interest, if anyone is planning on building a body, if you want a drill bit of a similar length and can't find one, I have done this several times for jobs at work (I am a fitter machinist), get a drill of the required size, either get someone to do it for you or put it in a 3 jaw chuck on a lathe with the butt end out, this is fairly soft.
You can either drill a hole up it about 1/2 inch long or turn it down about 1/32 to 1/16 a side. You now get a bit of bright mild steel round ( sometimes called free machining steel) and either drill or turn it to fit. You only want about .002" clearance so drill the hole first and turn the spigot to suit. This is because the drill size can vary slightly.
Then use a silver solder to braze it on. You need the grade with the highest silver content, a brand name we use is Easy-Flo.
Before you join them make sure you have flux inside the hole and after machining DO NOT TOUCH THE NICE SHINY SURFACE WITH YOUR FINGERS, it will cause the Easy-flow to not bind properly.
When you get the flux in heat both parts up till flux melts and then push together, not with your bare hands it's hot, then keeping the flame on the job deposit a small bead on the join and using the flame chase it round, add a bit more and do the same.
It makes it easier if you lay it in a it of angle iron to keep it straight.You will find it works it's way in with capillary action and viola, a good strong joint that you can drill accurately with.
I have done this to drill out a series of holes that were in line on a flail mower element that was 8 feet long and a 5/8 drill.
Brilliant post ,it has been fascinating and inspiring.
I see stewmac have templates, are they any good?
Clive
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