Drilling near dovetail for DRO installation? (Rockwell mill)

[PJ234]

Hello,

I'm a newbie to working on machine tools, and am trying to install a two access DRO on my Rockwell mill. I mocked things into place, and just as I was about to drill and tap the scale mounting hole for the Y axis, I started to have second thoughts about the location being so close to the knee dovetail.

Is this something to be concerned with, or is it 'normal'? Is this likely to lead to cracks, etc in the future, or is that not really an issue with cast iron? There isn't any straightforward way to avoid this mounting location.

Thanks very much for any advice or feedback.

 

[Cadillac]

Just don’t break through to the dovetail. You only need a 1/2” depth on your screws so u should be good. Stay away from the edges and you should be good. Do not bottom your screws out as it can put unwanted stresses on hole or surroundings.

 

[DAT510]

Also make sure it's not in the way of your Gib adjustment.

 

[PJ234]

Thanks very much for the replies.