What is the first step when drilling pilot holes?

The first step when drilling pilot holes is to line up the pilot bit with the center of one of the end fastener marks. This is crucial because proper alignment ensures that the pilot hole is accurately positioned, which is essential for the effective fastening of components in aerospace assembly. Accurate placement prevents misalignment that could compromise the structural integrity of the assembly.

Before drilling, it is important to ensure that the drill bit is centered over the designated mark. This helps avoid any issues that might arise from drilling at an incorrect angle or position, which could lead to the need for rework or decrease the overall quality of the assembly. Therefore, positioning the pilot bit correctly is foundational to the drilling process and sets the stage for all subsequent actions. Proper alignment at this stage is critical to achieving the desired outcomes in the assembly process.