Helicoil

Energy One

f18mech

Member
Just pulled threads on a bolt from the rocker cover. Have S&S Heads.
How do you replace helicoil in the head?
Thanks for any info.
 

RRRUFF

Well-Known Member
Replace heli-coil or install first time helicoil. First time just go to an auto parts store and buy the proper size helicoil for the bolt size. Correct size drill bit and installation tool should come with the kit. Be very careful when drilling and re-threading the hole. Use hi-temp locktite and screw in helicoil. Allow locktite to cure. Re-assemble per S&S specs, good to go.

If the hole has been heli-coiled before your gonna have to remove the old helicoil
 

f18mech

Member
Thanks for the reply. It looks like a replacement. I am not the original owner.

I was wondering if an adhesive was used. Will make sure it is high temp lock tite. We used an epoxy setup for the f-18 but wasnt sure with the temps for a motor.

owe ya a beer or two :cheers:
 

RRRUFF

Well-Known Member
Yea, Locktite makes some that will work on heads a such. Hope it works for you, be sure to clean the oil and such before you install the helicoil with locktite and let it cure before riding it.
 

2004BC

FREEDOM!!!
Just as an alternative I stopped using heli-coils a long long time ago. I use solid inserts. They can't unravel like heli-coils. I'll look in my supplies tonight for the brand and take a picture. I've done heads, exhaust bolts, etc. and you are then bolting and unbolting into a threaded steel sleeve essentially instead of into an aluminum piece. Never had one pull out or fail.
:cheers:
 

HotRod

Well-Known Member
Just as an alternative I stopped using heli-coils a long long time ago. I use solid inserts. They can't unravel like heli-coils. I'll look in my supplies tonight for the brand and take a picture. I've done heads, exhaust bolts, etc. and you are then bolting and unbolting into a threaded steel sleeve essentially instead of into an aluminum piece. Never had one pull out or fail.
:cheers:

:2thumbs::2thumbs: :iagree:
 

2004BC

FREEDOM!!!
2004BC very interested in the solid inserts. Post some pics if you can.
Here you go! Finally got out to the shop. They have an epoxy coating on the outside to lock in. I used them in Harley heads, stripped exhaust ports etc. :cheers:



 

nine lives

Active Member
I've used these things called nutserts. They are stainless steel look like a rivet with threads inside. Have to use a special pneumatic gun, insert into hole pull trigger expands like a rivet really strong. sorry no pics. Haven't used them in years, I'll see if I can dig up more info.
 

2004BC

FREEDOM!!!
Thanks 2004BC, not what I was expecting but looks more solid than helicoils.
Please tell me what you were thinking. Maybe it's out there and even better than helicoils and EZ-Locs. Definitely open to better ideas!!!!!! :2thumbs:
 

2004BC

FREEDOM!!!
I've used these things called nutserts. They are stainless steel look like a rivet with threads inside. Have to use a special pneumatic gun, insert into hole pull trigger expands like a rivet really strong. sorry no pics. Haven't used them in years, I'll see if I can dig up more info.
The problem I've found with stainless steel is that if not properly coated it will promote electrolysis in some aluminum alloys. It all depends. I still use SS in aluminum, I just coat it completely with Never Seize or Loctite. SS looks much better than rusty carbon steel!
:cheers:
 

BigDogBro1

Made in the USA
I've used both and like the full insert sleeve style over the spring style for better hold and lock but may have to oversize the old hole to insert the full insert sleeve style.
 

2004BC

FREEDOM!!!
I've used both and like the full insert sleeve style over the spring style for better hold and lock but may have to oversize the old hole to insert the full insert sleeve style.
True. You need to have enough meat in the metal to tap the OD thread of the insert.:cheers:
 

karata

Member
End your problems forever:
Timesert.com
Time Fastener Co.
5301 Unit G Longley Lave
Reno,NV.89511
800-423-4070
Regards
Jim@karata
 

Staffy

Active Member
End your problems forever:
Timesert.com
Time Fastener Co.
5301 Unit G Longley Lave
Reno,NV.89511
800-423-4070
Regards
Jim@karata
Oh oh - the man has spoken (its not often that we get to hear from the grand master himself :):)). Jim is the "man" when it comes to knowledge and experience :2thumbs::2thumbs:
I WOULD FOLLOW HIS ADVISE
Thank you Jim.
 
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