M16 Bolts are to big for IRS Center Section

[walkerwde]

Has anyone else had an issue with the M16 bolts being to large for the front of the IRS Center Section? I’m not sure what to do. I really don’t want to take it back out and drill them out. It t really appears they drilled them for an M14 bolt.

[MSumners]

This has to be drilled out to 5/8.
I would recommend using a cordless and going slow. See build log post 46.

[edwardb]

Drilling out the front mounting holes on the IRS diff is one of the points in the installation instructions. Along with trimming the knuckles. You do have the instructions, right?

[FF33rod]

This operation is the dumbest one in the whole kit. It's down right dangerous drilling this sucker out - the bit keeps catching and snaps the drill out of your hand. So be careful!!!

[CraigS]

I did mine starting w/ a 9/16th bit and then drilled to 5/8. I also converted all the bolts to 5/8 except those that screw into the threaded hole in the IRS diff rear mounts.
5/8 = .625
16mm = .629

[walkerwde]

Thanks everyone for your quick responses. Yes I have the instruction manual I just missed this part like an idiot. I do realize you have to trim the knuckles and drill the spindles out to 5/8 too. I don't understand why Factory Five didn't just use the same size bolts but maybe they have a reason. I will take your advice CraigS and start with a 9/16th bit and then move on to a 5/8.