What is crucial after sliding the drill guide into place?

After sliding the drill guide into place, confirming that the guide is flush against the assembly surface is crucial for several reasons. First, a flush alignment ensures that the drill bit will enter the workpiece at the correct angle, providing precision and avoiding any potential misalignment that could lead to damage or improper holes during drilling.

Additionally, if the guide is not flush, it may result in an uneven surface contact which could affect the drill's stability, increase the likelihood of drill bit wander, or compromise the integrity of the joint being worked on. This step is essential for maintaining the accuracy and quality of the assembly process, which is critical in aerospace applications where tolerances are tight and precision is paramount.

By ensuring the guide is flush, you help to establish a solid foundation for the drilling operation, contributing to the overall safety and reliability of the finished assembly.