Installing Captive Push In Studs for the R2D2 Dome

The  majority of builders use Captive Push In Studs to help hold electronics in place on the dome.   Although they are supposed to be mechanically pushed into the aluminum, most do not have this capability.

The tools used are a sharpie, drill and small bit according to the captive stud specs, and a countersink bit.

Tools for captive studs
Tools need for captive studs

First,  the spots must be marked for the studs and than a small hole drilled.  I did mine from the inside of the dome.

Drilling the hole for a captive stud
Drilling the hole for a stud

After the small hole is drilled,  the 120° 3/8 drill bit is used to countersink the dome from the outside.

Countersink used for captive studs
Countersink used for captive studs

Next, the captive stud is pressed in.  It sits just above the metal and should not be flush.  The goal is to tighten the stud until the barbs on the backside grip and twist into the dome.

Captive stud in hole
Captive stud before pulling tight.

Once, in place, use a washer and nut on the backside to torque the stud into place.  You will know when the stud is seated properly when it does not move.  It would have to be hit with a hammer to get it out. I installed the  PSI’s  and Holoprojectors with my DIY mounts.

Tight captive stud
Tighten nut for captive stud

Here are the captive studs intalled from the from to hold the Logics and PSIs in place.

Studs installed
Installed stud on the front of the dome

This is what it looks like from the inside.

Installed Lighting
Installed Logic Displays and PSIs from inside the dome.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *