I know you're still gone, but here's what I did today in the shop. Man is it ever easy to drill 1/2" holes with a drill press! :D I also drilled for set screws.

We still have to weld the studs in place and of course do the work on the swing arm, but we're one or two steps closer. I think I'll wait until you are back to do the cutting part. You should be there.