From time to time, farriers must provide screw-in studs in aluminum shoes for our clients. We want to make sure the task remains easy for the client and our work is reliable. However, when we drill and tap holes in aluminum, they can become worn rather quickly. Then we’ll hear from our riders that the studs have fallen from their aluminum shoes during training or competition.

I’m sharing a method that Sumter, S.C., farrier Tommy Newman and I have used for several years to improve the longevity of the holes in this shoe type. We find that this helps make screwing-in and removing the studs easier for the trainer or rider. This process also works well for applying hospital plates. In the April 2016 issue of American Farriers Journal, I explained the process for making a one-bolt hospital plate. Should you find the need, this is the same process you would use with that shoe.

Step-By-Step

It is important to follow these steps in order to improve the likelihood for success. Here is a list of items you will need, along with your shoe:

• 7/16-inch drill bit.
• 3/4-inch bit.
• 3/8-16 course thread tap.
• Center punch.
• 3/8-16 X 7/16-inch T-nuts.
• 3/8-16 X 3/4-inch bolts.
• Star bit or creaser.
• 9/16-inch socket.
• Tap lubricant.
• Soap.
• Nevr-Dull Waddling Polish.

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