Need Help With Metric Drill Bit Sizes

[Mandel]

I'm installing the Honda wind deflectors and the instructions call for drilling 3mm holes into the bike's fairings.

The deflectors come with those plastic pop-off fasteners that are used on the ST to hold the fairing together. I am supposed to drill a 3mm hole into the bike and use one of those plastic fasteners to attach the deflector.

The problem is I can't find a 3mm drill bit ANYWHERE here in San Diego, and I've called all over. Some shops have suggested using a 1/8" bit instead. They told me there's only a few thousands of an inch difference between the two.

My concern is that if I drill out a 1/8" hole, the plastic fasteners, which were designed for a 3mm hole, may not fit properly. Or if they do fit, they may pop out because the hole's a little too big.

Does somebody know whether I can get away with using the 1/8" bit? I'll probably drill a test hole through some scrap plastic and see how it fits.

Thanks.

Mandel

[ccryder]

With a difference of 0.008", I doubt that you will notice the difference. Just drill it easy and don't wiggle the drill back and forth/ up and down and you will be good-to-go. If you can find a #31 drill it is 0.120".

My real $0.02 says, Drill it and ride too pretty to be sitting and sweating this small stuff!!!!!!!!

Neil S.

[The Doktor]

not a big difference... but if yer not sure, drill a test hole on a bit of scrap plastic and test to see if it works!
Failing that, ill put a 3mm one in the post!!... erm mail:D

[Trekker]

Agreed, and if you can find a #32 (.116) and let it wiggle, that's OK too. Neil is right, it shouldn't matter too much.

[bcst1300]

I used a 1/8" and it works just fine.

[DeSTy]

The drilled holes are NOT for the plastic locking pins, they are for the supplied self-tapping screws.

[Highrider]

The plastic fasteners supplied are a longer version that go into the existing holes at the top by the windshield and the valve cover access panel.

[ccryder]

Dave to the rescue!!!!!

Time2Ride, I'm outta here!
Neil S.

[dmulk]

Mark,

If you want a 3mm drill bit, call Marshals Industrial Hardware - 858-271-5555

Amazing store. They sell everything in 1's and 2's. I got the tap extractor there and they are open on Saturdays! :)

Just be extremely careful! You could find your self looking around in there for a long time because they have so many cool tools.... :)

Easy fix is to go with the 1/8in and call it a day. Your 04 might even be a bit faSTer than other 04's with 3mm holes due to less plaSTic.... hehe.

Good luck!


Cheers,

<D>

[LarryKathy]

You'll find that a 7/64 drill bit works perfect. I just did my bike and no problem. I used a 3mm allen wrench to find the right size drill bit.
Hope this helps

[MileHigh]

Howdy Mandel,

here is a drill bit cross ref. 3mm is between 7/64 and 1/8.

Drill it 7/64 and see how that works. Or, go to Rears & Sore Butt (Sears Robuck) and get what you need.

You could also check with the local auto dealer service departments to see when the SnapOn, Mac, Matco trucks come by and pick up an exact 3mm bit.