What size bit do I need to install Grab Irons? What number? It is time I fix some of these Athearns up! I have a couple oof bits but all are to big!
It all depends on what you’re using for grabs. Most come in .012" wire, but some come in .010", and some come in .015". In general though, a #74 bit will get you through most projects.
It also depends upon whose grab irons you want to install. Detail Associates #2202 note right on the package to use a #80 bit.
Bob Boudreau
Im using A-line grab Irons They do not say what size. I bought 10 packs for $5.00 at a show.
Am I the only one who bends them from brass wire?
Not at all - I bought two sets of the Walthers grab iron kits for my Athearn F7s, then I just used the paper drill guides and made up grabs in brass - cost per unit for handmade grabs is about £1 or so as opposed to £4 for the kit. Need to fit these to my Walthers B40-8 to fini***he detail project.
I generally use a #77 or 78 bit for the holes. It does vary depending on whose grabs you use or what size wire you use. A strip of .020 thick Evergreen styrene strip works great as a spacer to hold the grabs at a consistent distance from the surface of the model.
Have Fun,
Tom Watkins