Stripped thread

[Steff79]

As is always the way with me I have turned the simplest job into a headache!

I bought a space saver spare off gumtree, and when I went to put it in I have somehow stripped the thread.

I'm guessing/hoping that the rod that screws in is available so that should be ok.

But I'll have to look at a helecoil/thread repair kit for the thread it goes into.

As a mechanical novice i've never done this before.

anyone know size thread repair I need to be buying? or whether the rods are in fact available.

many thanks
steffan

[Steff79]

I've answered part of my own question but picking up the phone, so got a new securing rod ordered from the local dealer.

Just need to repair the thread now.

[Dancake]

Most tend to be either M6 or M8 metric coarse, but you need to find out what thread the securing rod has and work from there. If you need to drill into the body to fit a nutsert or helicoil, make sure to apply something to prevent rust from forming.

[tommyweaves]

I'd try rescuing the existing thread on the car first:

Find a nut that fits your new rod. Then find a bolt that fits the nut, thus ensuring the bolt is the same thread as your rod.

Lubricate the bolt and wind it in to the car "nut", half turn in, then quarter turn out. If the bolt holds then you're good to go. But be careful when putting the new rod in, making sure it's threading cleanly.

[green van man]

Originally Posted by tommyweaves

I'd try rescuing the existing thread on the car first:

Find a nut that fits your new rod. Then find a bolt that fits the nut, thus ensuring the bolt is the same thread as your rod.

Lubricate the bolt and wind it in to the car "nut", half turn in, then quarter turn out. If the bolt holds then you're good to go. But be careful when putting the new rod in, making sure it's threading cleanly.

Added to that, try cutting a slot at an angle down the bolt to give the swarf somewhere to go as you clear the tread.
M6 or M8 taps are cheap enough, get a second taper if you don't want to buy a set, no need for a tap wrench as you can get by with an adjustable spanner.
The other alternative is go next size up and make your own fixing rod out of a length of stud bar.

I havery tapped bigger, araldite a bolt into the hole and cut flush, drill and tap to original size where bigger fixing rod would cause problems. Thread inserts are OK but I've not a lot of faith in their longevity having seen them screw out instead along with the rod/ bolt.
There is nothing in the world like a problem needing fixing to justify buying tools, and once baught always to hand when needed.



Paul.

[Steff79]

That is all. Good shout on rescuing it. I'll definitely try that first followed by the tap option.

[Steff79]

Should say thanks all!

[V70Zig]

Originally Posted by green van man

Thread inserts are OK but I've not a lot of faith in their longevity having seen them screw out instead along with the rod/ bolt.

Paul.

Always add some thread lock to the helicoils when fitting them, and allow to set before use, they won't come out.........

[Steff79]

I didn't have any success with a regular bolt but bought a tap and die set which worked a treat.

Nice and easy outcome

My 1yr old even stayed a sleep in the car while I did it which always makes things easier......

[green van man]

Originally Posted by Steffan Eldred

I didn't have any success with a regular bolt but bought a tap and die set which worked a treat.

Nice and easy outcome

My 1yr old even stayed a sleep in the car while I did it which always makes things easier......

See, and now you've got it for next time so good result all round. In a couple of years the one year old will be able to do it for you.

Paul.