Re-use tuner bushings?

[Stray Feathers]

I've used Grover tuners on about eight ukuleles, drilling the post holes, and reaming them out with the appropriate Stew Mac bushing reamer. On the last two, when I pressed in the Grover bushings with my drill press, there was a lot of lacquer chipping and cracking. So two questions: 1) To avoid this in the futre, should I use the reamer after the finish is on, or before, and just do a thorough manual reaming of the finish before pressing the bushings? And 2) If I remove the tuners and bushings to make repairs, can I press the original bushings back in when it's fixed? Thanks--Bruce W.

[tippie53]

I pre drill before finish and use a chamfer bit after finish to break the corner of finish to avoid chipping

[MaineGeezer]

The only reason I can think of not to re-use the bushings is if they are worn so much the shafts are no longer supported properly.

[TEETERFAN]

I have a lot of experience with Fender bushings on electrics. I have cracked necks forcing in bushings that are too tight, so opening up the hole a little is best. I kinda shoot for a fit that needs a light tap or two to seat. On worn holes I drizzle cyanoacrylate glue on the bushing and let that dry completely, building the thickness until it is snug again.
To avoid chipping on finished necks I drill the holes in stages and drill the first 1/16”-1/8” with my drill reversed (standard bit).