Timesert/helicoil upper oil pan +

[TheBac]

Just curious...
I have a spare upper oil pan for the LB7 that has a stripped out hole for one of the rear cover bolts. I think it's 12mm?
Do you think it would hold up to timesert/helicoil the hole, or should I have a fab shop weld the hole shut and attempt to redrill/thread the thing instead?


Im thinking of using this on the little truck, so I then have this to ask:
If I cut 2" from the bottom of the front 1/3 of the pan, is it then OK to remove the windage tray completely or should I find a way to keep it installed? There might be only 4 of the 8 bolts available once I cut the pan, thats the problem.

 

[rcr1978]

I think they work really good assuming there is enough material in the area they are used. I cant remember how thick it is right there though.

 

[Chevy1925]

I would helicoil it and not worry. It will hold better than the other threads

 

[JoshH]

I agree with those guys.

 

[Hambone]

X4 helicoil would be best
It’s really hard to make a good weld on something of that nature... dirty, oilly and who knows if it’s straight aluminum or has some funky metal properties!
Definitely should keep the windage tray.
Maybe look into fabing your own since it sounds like your tolerances are going to be tight?