HI all
In the photo is a brass extrusion supplied by stuart models for the eccentric straps on a stuart 10v reversing gear mechanism

I am not making a stuart 10v engine but one of a similar size, non reversing and just using one half of the extrusion to make one strap 5mm wide 16 mm bore.
My intention is to machine the strap as per the stuart drawings which would involve slitting the strap for an adjustment screw.
Do I slit first, add the screw then bore or bore first then slit and add the screw.
My problem with the latter is the possibility the slot may open up or close after slitting, or I am I worrying over nothing?
Geoff