Repairing threads on Torque Converter

[Cougar281]

Well, I just heard back from the guys at Precision; My ML converter is fine as far as operation, but apparently the bolt holes are "goobered up". My assumption is that it's from installation (cross threading or something), but I could be wrong. What's the best way to repair them (it would be $250 for a new front cover ). They sugested helicoils. Are there any better suggestions, or is that an acceptable solution?

 

[Mike L.]

Well, I just heard back from the guys at Precision; My ML converter is fine as far as operation, but apparently the bolt holes are "goobered up". My assumption is that it's from installation (cross threading or something), but I could be wrong. What's the best way to repair them (it would be $250 for a new front cover ). They sugested helicoils. Are there any better suggestions, or is that an acceptable solution?

I don't like helicoils in the converter. They would work if you get them in perfectly straight.

 

[kjp800]

How bad are they? Maybe just run a thread restorer (light duty tap) through them??

 

[Cougar281]

How bad are they? Maybe just run a thread restorer (light duty tap) through them??

Not sure; I didn't look closely when I took it out. I'll see when it gets back here next week.

 

[CancerPipe]

I would try to run a tap through them first. I know it sounds ghetto, but i've been known to weld up a stripped hole and drill/retap it in the right situations.

 

[Cougar281]

After talking to Mike, it sounds like it was the locktite that pretty much ripped the threads out of the housing; isn't really a way around it, unfortunately.

 

[LarryJewell]

I think I'd want the new front cover :hello:

 

[Mike L.]

If the threads can be cleaned up and the bolts screw in without wobbling; red lock tite will do the trick.

 

[racinmike77]

$250 to fix a $1200 converter, jump on that man!

 

[McRat]

There are inserts that are better than helicoils. Keen-serts are one, there are some other brands. They are good enough for aerospace critical areas. Go to McMaster Carr www.mcmaster.com and start hunting.

If you are wondering what they are like, look at your bell housing mount. It uses a keensert insert.

 

[McRat]

PS - Some are self-locking and you don't use locktite with them. So if you're going to locktite, make sure you're not getting the self-lockers.

 

[Osubeaver]

If you are looking for what McRat is talking about search McMaster for "key locking threaded insert"

 

[SIKDMAX]

I think I'd want the new front cover :hello:

X2

 

[specialagentPK]

There are inserts that are better than helicoils. Keen-serts are one, there are some other brands. They are good enough for aerospace critical areas. Go to McMaster Carr www.mcmaster.com and start hunting.

If you are wondering what they are like, look at your bell housing mount. It uses a keensert insert.

Pat that site has everything, how have you found their prices as compared to their places for the same item?

 

[dmaxlover]

Have a local machine shop fix the threads for you with a thread insert. The threads will be much stronger in the long run, just make sure they don't break through to the inside.

 

[McRat]

Pat that site has everything, how have you found their prices as compared to their places for the same item?

McMaster Carr is about 30% more expensive for most stuff than the cheapest sources. However:

They really do ship stuff the same day. I get parts in 24hrs or less from them 90% of the orders without overnight fees.

Very easy online ordering after you set up an account with them. They keep your CC on file, so you don't even need your CC with you to order.

Never had a problem with returns.

Basically, I get more work done per hour by using McMaster Carr since they are a more streamlined online machine supply shop. But I pay a few dollars more for the service.

Gosh, I hope nobody thinks I'm "biased" toward MC ...

 

[duratothemax]

x2 on mcmaster carr!!! Amazing place! Ive NEVER waited longer than 24 hours to receive any "standard rate UPS ground" shipments from them.

 

[Osubeaver]

+1 again. I've had a tracking number in my inbox less than an hour after placing an order. Even in Oregon I get stuff next day almost everytime.

 

[messejme]

Mcmaster-Carr is one of the fastest means of getting a high quality part period. Their product manual is extensive and somewhat easy to use. Both helical (ex. Heli-coil)and insert style are used in aviation applications. As long as you drill straight and true, to exact depth and repair all holes you will have a superior fix that can be serviced as many times as needed.

 

[WolfLMM]

X2 fix the threads.