Help - Cross threaded bolt?
Help - Cross threaded bolt?
I was changing out my shift lever for one that I just had powder coated and I think cross threaded the bolt that holds it on?
So, will I need to somehow re-thread the hole that the bolt goes into (if so, how do I do that?) or can I just get another bolt?
So, will I need to somehow re-thread the hole that the bolt goes into (if so, how do I do that?) or can I just get another bolt?
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 146
Likes: 0
From: Arizona
1st… Love your quote
Hey if I was going to skin that cat… I’ll take my lever and myself to the local hardware store and find a longer slightly thinner/longer bolt and get matched sized nut and washer and install… Or you could get a tap and die set to re-cut the correct size and get a new bolt…. Or you my need to make it slightly larger and get a new bolt for shifter and you should be good to go. ………………… Good Luck
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 2,030
Likes: 195
From: Harford Co., Maryland
Need to run a tap through the shifter to clean up the threads. If that doesn't let a new bolt hold it securely, drill it out and cut all new threads for a little larger bolt. If that's not an option, based on how much metal is around the hole, get a helicoil installed. The other thing is to drill all the way through and use a bolt and nut as the previous post mentioned. So, you have some options, just need to use the one that works best for you...or buy a new lever and be more careful installing it. lol
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 1,745
Likes: 1
From: A house.
Need to run a tap through the shifter to clean up the threads. If that doesn't let a new bolt hold it securely, drill it out and cut all new threads for a little larger bolt. If that's not an option, based on how much metal is around the hole, get a helicoil installed. The other thing is to drill all the way through and use a bolt and nut as the previous post mentioned. So, you have some options, just need to use the one that works best for you...or buy a new lever and be more careful installing it. lol
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 5,384
Likes: 12
From: Out on Deranged
9 times outta ten the bolt threads will cross leaving the hole threads in ok shape. Geat a new bolt,and tap through the hole to clean up those threads, for about 5$ and a little elbow grease you may get lucky! Otherwise those guys already nailed all the soloutions!!
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,013
Likes: 5
From: long island.ny
just for future reference, after powdercoat or chrome, or even paint, always chase the threads with a tap prior to installing any hardware. between sandblasting and surface finishes, there is always some residue left on the threads.
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 796
Likes: 0
From: Central NJ
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2,289
Likes: 22
From: Beautiful Downtown Burbank
Drilling it out for as larger size wont work too well either, unless your shifter shaft can handle a 3/8ths dia bolt run through the slot (its gonna be close). Helicoil may be your best fix, but you'll have to blind side it, which aint easy if youve never done it before.
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that is why we always plug our holes when we blast and coat parts, i would bet you have media in your threads... just go get a tap run that though the hole, and pop a new bolt in there. be good as new in no time! let me know if you have any questions... ace hardware sells single taps
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 4,990
Likes: 9
From: Marina del Rey
a man's gotta know his limitations
Shift levers are forged steel--not aluminum. And they require the original size bolt--not a larger one--as they are trapped in a groove in the shift shaft, presumably so the lever won't fall off, even if the bolt loosens. Replace the bolt w/ a brand-new original size, after running a tap through the hole. If the threads are too messed up, either install a Heli-coil insert or replace the lever.