Yeah, I think so...the fully machined section of the shaft, so the actual open center I.D. is 0.500", whereas the tapered ends flare out to about 0.535"...there appears plenty of metal left, so I think that might work.

That idea crossed my mind but I have no idea how difficult it would be to do this? Do I just grab the closest tap and attempt to make some threads in there? (assuming I can find the matching plug of course)