Can anyone tell how to use a heli coil. Picture on each steps will help. thanks

 

Buy the "kit" for the size that you need and also buy the exact size drill bit that the kit tells you need. Normally it's an "off" size, but don't use anything else! Even if you already have one, if it's not in good condition, buy a new one. Let me say that again, buy the correct size drill!

Drill out the old threads making sure that you are as straight as possible. If you can, do it on a drill press.

Then use the tap that is included in the kit. When taping a hole, keep backing out the tap and blow it clean with WD40.

Once the hole is taped, put the Helicoil on the insertion tool (also part of the kit) and screw it into the hole. Helicoils are kind of like those old gag gifts that you can put your fingers into, but when you try to pull out your fingers, it tightens down. So, you only have one try at screwing it in. Not that you should have any problem, unless you didn't tap the hole enough.

Then unscrew the insertion tool.

This will leave a small "tab" at the bottom of the hole (it's what the insertion tool grabs onto to screw it in) that goes diagionally across the hole. Use a small screwdriver and "punch" the tab, it will break free and fall to the bottom of the hole. If you have to, use a magnet to remove the tab.

That's all there is.

Oh, and by the way, buy the correct size drill bit.

Wes

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Wes V &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Buy the "kit" for the size that you need and also buy the exact size drill bit that the kit tells you need. Normally it's an "off" size, but don't use anything else! Even if you already have one, if it's not in good condition, buy a new one. Let me say that again, buy the correct size drill!

Drill out the old threads making sure that you are as straight as possible. If you can, do it on a drill press.

Then use the tap that is included in the kit. When taping a hole, keep backing out the tap and blow it clean with WD40.

Once the hole is taped, put the Helicoil on the insertion tool (also part of the kit) and screw it into the hole. Helicoils are kind of like those old gag gifts that you can put your fingers into, but when you try to pull out your fingers, it tightens down. So, you only have one try at screwing it in. Not that you should have any problem, unless you didn't tap the hole enough.

Then unscrew the insertion tool.

This will leave a small "tab" at the bottom of the hole (it's what the insertion tool grabs onto to screw it in) that goes diagionally across the hole. Use a small screwdriver and "punch" the tab, it will break free and fall to the bottom of the hole. If you have to, use a magnet to remove the tab.

That's all there is.

Oh, and by the way, buy the correct size drill bit.

Wes</TD></TR></TABLE>

Thanks Wes, does anyone have any pics on these steps?

 

 

Catch;

It really doesn't warrant taking photos. It's easy, but you have to take your time (and get the correct size drill).

I'd guess that the biggest problem that individuals have is not drilling the hole straight. If you are doing this on an aluminum item, make sure that ALL of the old bolt is removed! If not, when the drill bit hits it, the drill will go off center.

If you are really worried about it, pick up a piece of aluminum to play around with. Ya, you will go through a couple helicoils, but it may be worth it for piece of mind.

Wes