Detroit Iron
Well-Known Member
- Local time
- 1:55 AM
- Joined
- Jul 30, 2008
- Messages
- 436
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- Location
- Bay Area - California
I've got a brand new set of Edelbrock E-street aluminum heads in my '64 Polara 383. I managed to strip the #3 spark plug hole. I attempted to clean-up the threads with a spark plug thread chaser, but that too would not lock on to the original threads. After much effort at recovery; the hole is completely wrecked.
At this point, I need to repair the threads and that's why I'm here. I would like input on repairing the threads while the head is on the engine and in the car. I'm leaving pulling the head as a last resort.
Thread repair options: I've looked around and found that Save-a-thread and Time-sert are the most common. These don't seem like a possibility for me since after you've inserted the new threads; it requires that you swedge it. Problem with this is since this is plug hole #3 (right next to inner fender) I can't swing a hammer. The other option would be an old Heli-coil. I like this option, but they are hard to find these days. I've seen them on eBay. My concern with Heli-coil is the tool to cut new threads is a "T" handle and it's too long. Maybe it can be cut down. I don't know.
Anyhow, chime in if you have any experience with thread repair in the car. Thank you all.
At this point, I need to repair the threads and that's why I'm here. I would like input on repairing the threads while the head is on the engine and in the car. I'm leaving pulling the head as a last resort.
Thread repair options: I've looked around and found that Save-a-thread and Time-sert are the most common. These don't seem like a possibility for me since after you've inserted the new threads; it requires that you swedge it. Problem with this is since this is plug hole #3 (right next to inner fender) I can't swing a hammer. The other option would be an old Heli-coil. I like this option, but they are hard to find these days. I've seen them on eBay. My concern with Heli-coil is the tool to cut new threads is a "T" handle and it's too long. Maybe it can be cut down. I don't know.
Anyhow, chime in if you have any experience with thread repair in the car. Thank you all.