2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission How to replace threaded frame insert?

[dresslered]

Folks,

I'm trying to find out how to replace a threaded frame insert. Specifically, one of the inserts on the front frame end that the sway bar retainer gets bolted to by a M10-1. 50 x 5MM Metric Hex bolt. Are these Nutserts? The real trick is going to be able to gain access to this area. TIA.



David

 

[LVJUNIOR]

it might be easier to buy a helicoil kit. This company has a lot of other options Helicoil, Helicoil Insert, Helicoil Inserts, Helicoil Kit, Helicoil tool kit, Helicoil thread repair, Helicoil Gauge, Helicoil Tap, Helicoils, Emhart Helicoil, Bollhoff Helicoil, Helicoil Plus, Armacoil, Armstrong Helicoil

 

[mwilson]

Typing on an iPod so please forgive lack of punctuation



I think there is way to get in there, Seth had one let go when we installed the steering brace on his old '99. We got a bolt and nut on it somehow.

I will ask Seth when I talk to him later on this week.

 

[GHarman]

Either a "nutsert" or a "Riv-Nut". I've installed many of these(Riv-Nut) in trailer decking. They work great and install easilly with the proper tooling. There is a hand installation tool available for low production and maintainence applications. If you have adequate clearance to swing the wrench. Heres the links. GregH



Rivnut Fasteners & Bollhoff Installation Tools, Puller EZ & Custom Rivnuts - Blind Fasteners & Inserts - Bollhoff



Custom Rivnuts Fasteners and Plusnuts - Rivnut Blind Fasteners at Cardinal Components



http://www.cardinalcomponents.com/images/C845 Rivnut Tool Manual.pdf

 

[dresslered]

Thanks all.

Mwilson,

I believe that you might be right. I didn't have any time to work on it this weekend, but there is a square cutout for mounting the bumper brace to the frame. Maybe I can reach in through here. I'm wondering if had had over torqued this when I mounted my steering brace over seven years ago.



LVJUNIOR, I thought about a helicoil, but if this is already an insert it might not handle the stresses.



GHarman, the nutserts look like they would work if you could get the darned tool in there.



I've also thought about welding a metal tab on a nut so that I could maneuver it in there.

 

[GHarman]

Welding, definitely in a tight spot! Make sure the insert is Steel or compatible material. Remove all the plating where you will weld. (Zinc is bad, Cadmium is deadly) If you can slip the threaded insert into the hole where you removed the original insert, with the flange up, and tack it with a TIG or MIG from the bottom? In tight places this works great. Use a sacrificial bolt to maintain the threads and act as a heat sink so you dont burn through the side of the insert. A little moly grease on the threads of the bolt keep it from gauling. Dont breathe the fumes! GregH

 

[dresslered]

Greg,

What I meant to say is weld a tab on a nut before inserting it into the frame. Then, I would have a handle to slide the nut into place. This would also keep the nut from turning when I tighten the bolt.

 

[GHarman]

Yep! Work just as good! Lots of ways to do the same job! GregH