Heli-coil and other options

[Mark_vaughn]

I am doing some exhaust work, installing a header I snagged off eBay. When I removed my existing one after days of the bolts soaking in WD-40 I found that one of the bolts was stripped in the past and they installed a 1/2 inch bolt in it's place with very corse threads. It is very loose fitting and I think it will strip out when I install the new header with any torque.

Here are some thoughts I have, please give me your 2 cents on what is best.

1) Heli-coil. I have heard of them, but never used one.

2) Epoxy-Steel stuff and fill the hole then tap new threads. Clearance for a drill could be a problem though.

3) Leave well enough alone and try to use what is there, maybe with some thread lock or something.

Thanks.
Mark

[racydave]

Mark, you could try a heli-coil, you have nothing to loose, but ultimatly, you may have to remove the head and send to machine shop to be TIG welded, drilled and re-taped. Would be a good time for a triple grind, and re-condition.