TOPIC:

Got the new insert tool delivered early this morning.
That's what I call service.
Tested and it works, but I think the hand insert tool from the other kit will be more reliable.

Think part of the issue is the coil bending upwards

Well the coil worked great, but time took it's toll

Well that's unfortunate, but it doesn't look like a fresh break - if it was I'd expect at least some of the broken surfaces to be shiny, like the new thread. I'm thinking either existing cracks, possibly previously superglued up ... or the dreaded Zinkpest

Clean up & use a "metal" 2-part epoxy, or replace?

Replace. already in contact with somebody who may have one.
Yeah Zinkpest, think it already got knackered in a crash and reattaching gave it the rest.

Still not managed to buy a helicoil tool kit.

But today I was determed that I should make it work with the tools I've got.

First I tried my idea on a piece of wood.
My first test failed, but the next one was success

First drilled the hole to wanted depth with a 3.2mm drill bit.

As stated I do not have the thread tool, but I found out a M4 bolt can be used to make the threads.
I fitted a nut and washers to my wanted depth this time too.

For the insert tool I simply made a small slot in the M3 bolt for the helicoil end to sit in.

And finally when the helicoil was inserted, I used a broken screwdriver that fitted perfectly to knock the helicoil end off.
Worked like a charm!
[

My chassis repaired with helicoils in those bad holes

So for now I don't need the M3 helicoild tool kit, but I will buy at later stage..


I just need to find my energy pot so I can be able to do something again..

oh man thats genius, to think i spend money on it.

I just got a delivery from china with 4 different size M3 coils, testet, good quality and fit rapid tool better than the german manufacturer. originals

Hello all, its been to long.....
Well thanks for the idea,
I have been using heli-coil type thread inserts for years in my work, I use to install them in the field to repair damaged threads on aircraft exhausts, then interestingly at an aerospace company I worked at all of the threaded holes in any part they made that was aluminum got a thread insert from new as it makes for a stronger more wear resistant thread area than the aluminum does, (these were hydraulic actuators and manifolds )
I use them quite regularly now repairing stripped holes in magnesium parts but to be honest I have never thought about using them in plastics! Great idea, makes me think about other applications in plastics such as the always breaking suspension arms on certain cars such as the celica Grb / 959. I could drill, tap and install a thread insert rather than just forcing the screw to make the thread and putting internal stresses in the plastic....hmmmmm...very good indeed

Nice work, Richard!