Oil pan bolt hole stripped.

[Dale Finch]

I don't know if this has been discussed or not, but as I was prepping my '48 SA to reinstall the repaired oil pan, I noticed that the middle rear bolt hole is partially stripped out. I have the 3/8" helicoil kit, and figured I would go ahead and repair it, but my drill bit isn't quite long enough to get a perfectly straight shot at it. The clutch housing is in the way. Is there another way to repair this...JB Weld or something? Or should I go buy a longer drill bit? Any help would be appreciated.

[Don McCombs]

I'd get a longer bit.

[Dale Shaw]

Yep, NAPA has an epoxy "thread repair kit" that works great. I have been using it for a while now on everything from Carberators to Final Drives.

It comes with a bottle of release agent that you brush onto the bolt. (I use new clean bolts for best results).

Clean out the hole with brake or parts cleaner. Mix equal parts of the epoxy, after the bolt has been prepared. Put some of the mix into the hole. Insert the bolt all the way into the hole. If you can catch 1 or 2 threads that is great. Make sure the inserted bolt is in straight-if the hole is wallered out. Let it set up, I allow overnight, but the package says 5 min.

The bolt will be tight in the hole. If proper amount of release agent on the bolt, a little pressure and it will back out fine. If not and it is very tight, work it in and out using penetrant. I practiced on a pair of final bolt holes. I did not get enough release agent on one of the bolts and I twisted it off. (5/8" bolt)

Dale

[Bob McCarty]

Dale, If you need a 25/64", McMaster-Carr has them. Be sitting down when you look at the price.

Bob

Edit: Wholesale Tool (WTTool.com) has a 12" x 25/64 bit for $6.25 (part # 0214-0105). I don't know that 13/32 would be any more common and easier to find, but would probably work with some Locktite on the Helicoil.

[Dale Finch]

Thanks for the responses...I will probably check out BOTH. Will see what the "longboy" bits cost locally, if even available, and will ask the NAPA guy about the thread repair kit. Thank you for the Wholesale Tool Co. link.

On another note, do you guys know who carries a set of SQUARE sockets for the various plugs on the Cub and SA?

[Harold R]

On another note, do you guys know who carries a set of SQUARE sockets for the various plugs on the Cub and SA?

Dale...as far as I remember, most tool companies have them. Craftsman, Mactools...Snap-ons...etc. They look like regular sockets, but will be 8 sided internally.

[Dale Finch]

OH!! Right! No wonder I didn't see them...thanks!