At 09:55 PM 6/14/2010, pickle vanagon wrote:
>But I think I'm going to try the helicoil repair this weekend.  I don't want
>to run 3 bolts long term.  Is the insert really that hard to install?  I
>figure, after I drill and tap, that the insert must be pretty easy to get
>in.  And, where I'm' doing it, I'll have easy access.  Not like doing this
>in an engine compartment.

The hardest part is getting the tap to go in straight.  Compared to
that, most everything else is dead easy.  If you're not used to
drilling in steel -- use a drill containing cobalt if possible, use
cutting fluid (Tap Magic, lard, whatever you're going to use for
tapping).  Keep the drill speed way down (for this size I'd stay
below 700 rpm)  and use *heavy* feed pressure.  You want the tool to
cut and not rub.  Watch out -- if the drill snatches as it breaks
through, it will snatch your wrist if you let it.  If the drill
dulls, sharpen or replace it, then turn slower and push harder.  But
take great care that the tool is always cutting.  If it rubs it may
work-harden the steel and then you'll have a much more difficult time.

Yours,
David