The pilot hole keeps the drill bit aligned. The tape is a high-tech way of indicating how deep to drill.

And then tapping the hole for the threaded rod.

The tapping process had to be completed in the vise because I couldn't get enough torque from the lathe.

Now comes the rod, which had to be cut down to size.

After threading it into the copper slug, the rod was brazed with silver and brass to secure it. The threads alone were not adequate for this.

Brazing makes a big mess, so here's a little cleanup.

Not the cleanest job, but it serves the purpose.

The welding plate had been ground down to expose clean metal, which is critical for a good electrical connection. The original mill scale made TIG welding noticably poorer. At this point, it's all done and approved by the inspector in the hallway.