Chris Fowler

Damn thermostat housing bolt hole stripped on my intake manifold...I wasn't even close to getting it torqued down and it tore right out. :mad :mad :mad :mad

wayne_69_427

You will need the kit ( the drill bit, tap, insert andinstallation tool) around ten bucks. Drill out the bolt/hole, tap the hole, install the insert and you are back to the starndard size bolt and tread set up. Make sure you get the right kit I belive you will need 5/16th/course tread kit. Its not hard at all just take your time. go for it :thumbs:

Larry B.

You need a special Heli-coil tool and the correct drill size and a special heli-coil tap. Driil the hole to size required for the correct size heli-coil. tap the hole with the heli-coil tap. Thread the heli-coil onto the tool and the thread it into the hole. Unscew the tool. Now break off the Tang and you're finished. Simple. you just need the right stuff. :thumbs:

JRD77VET

:iagree: I'm a machinist, this is correct info. :yesnod:

Just make sure you drill the hole square to the flange and tap it square also :thumbs:

:seeya JRD77VET

zwede

Recommend a few drops of thread cutting oil while you tap the hole. Makes for nicer threads for the helicoil to grab to. Everything else will be included in the heli coil kit (drill, inserts, installation tool). It's easy and works better than the factory threads (stronger). Whoever invented these is on my hero-list.

Crash Dummy

Head bolts are where I had the most problems over the years. I gotta admit the person who invented helicoil salvaged a many a engine over the years. I sometimes wonder if it is just not best to helicoil all of the high torque threads on any engine that has 30 years of existence. They are stronger after all.

Anyone done that?

Chris Fowler

Man...and I was this close (holding fingers up approximately 7/8 of an inch apart) from having that damn cooling issue solved.

This damn aluminum intake is just way too soft...or a previous mechanic overtightened a lot of bolts... :rolleyes:

Crash Dummy

Heli coil inserts work with cast iron, steel & aluminum as far as I know. Go for it!

Chris Fowler

Guess I'll go pick one up tomorrow. I presume I can get them at AutoZone and such...

Crash Dummy

By the way... if you have never seen a heli coil kit here is what you will get.

Drill bit, tap, thread insert & stainless steel inserts. This is an old set I have had for 10+ years bought from NAPA for standard screwed up head bolt threads(7/16-14). Remember that one.... odds are you will need it. I have an extra package of inserts in the pic.

Chris Fowler

sweet! looks straight forward enough.

I've got a strange feeling I'm going to have to do both bolt holes... :rolleyes:

JoeC427

:iagree:

Chris Fowler

Ok...I helicoiled. Got 'em in and it all torqued down right.

Now...everyone pray that it all holds together. :blueangel: :blueangel: