Acampingwewillgo wrote:
Every time I've drilled into thick stock(frame rails) , if I didn't drill a pilot hole, I'd have a broken head no matter the clutch setting. As a matter of fact, most times the pilot hole had to be just a tad smaller than the "Tek"/self tapping screw. I would most certainly use the hex head!
2X
Not sure what brand of self drilling screws those who didn't need pilot holes used, but while mine worked fine for soft, relatively thin metal, I never had much luck using them without near full sized pilot holes into the frame. No problem if you are drilling/screwing into the added aluminum, but the frame can be a problem.
Also, check the threading on the self drilling screws. Some are made for sheet metal and some with standard threads. The sheet metal versions will have problems with thick steel.
I'd use the hex head versions...
