Tapping Cast Iron?

[Andres]

Hello all,



I've got a 2003 H. O. Cummins in a Hummer H1 and want to mount the EGT probe. Unfortunately there isn't room access to drill and tap a hole in the exhaust manifold right above the turbo. Even with a small right hand drill, I can't get to it. I would need to pull the exhaust manifold off.



I do have access to the 45 degree cast peice directly behind the Holset turbo. The probe would be about 2" behind the turbo. Is this a suitable location and can the cast metal be drilled and tapped? It looks like cast iron and I've never tapped that material before. Also, since it's curved, is there any type of epoxy I can use in the event I need some.

 

[BGlidewell]

do you have a picture of the manifold area?

 

[nickleinonen]

i'd still rather go pre turbo than post turbo where the elbow is... others here have drilled & tapped right by #3. . a straight shot from above and easy to get a magnet in to clean for filings if you want

 

[IC Smoke]

Hello all,



I've got a 2003 H. O. Cummins in a Hummer H1 and want to mount the EGT probe. Unfortunately there isn't room access to drill and tap a hole in the exhaust manifold right above the turbo. Even with a small right hand drill, I can't get to it. I would need to pull the exhaust manifold off.



I do have access to the 45 degree cast peice directly behind the Holset turbo. The probe would be about 2" behind the turbo. Is this a suitable location and can the cast metal be drilled and tapped? It looks like cast iron and I've never tapped that material before. Also, since it's curved, is there any type of epoxy I can use in the event I need some.

not sidetrack the thread but can we see more pics of this! sounds awesome!!!



Ian

 

[Turbo Tim 1]

Drilling and tapping cast iron is just like steel really, probably even easier. For doing an EGT probe you can do that dry, if I remember correctly, kerosene is the proper lubricant to use with cast iron.



That is one sweet hummer you have there.

 

[Highfinance97]

I do have access to the 45 degree cast peice directly behind the Holset turbo. The probe would be about 2" behind the turbo.

Looks like there is enough room to get in there.

that would be the ideal spot for the pyro



BTW I saw your vid of you pulling the ford around:-laf NICE



Michael

 

[Highfinance97]

if I remember correctly, kerosene is the proper lubricant to use with cast iron.

Thanks Tim,



Will use the kerosene.

TAP IT DRY!





Michael

 

[Diesel Nut]

Nice looking work. I like it.

As for the mounting, looks like you have an easy shot at number 6, as long as it clears the motor cover. #1 and #6 are the hottest cylinders.

And to throw another opinion out there on tapping - Grease.
I coat my drill bits and tap with grease. The grease will help lubricate the bit and tap, and will also catch most of the shavings. It really cuts good if you have sharp tools. Just remember that cast is brittle and will cut in chips, not long curly wavy pieces like mild steel. No biggie, just take your time. A pencil magnet is great for removing the chips after you tap the hole.

 

[Rattler]

You can use a little bearing grease on your tap, with the added benefit of the grease holding the metal chips. Randy

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

Andres,

It looks like you have gobs of room in the the #6, put it there. When you have the drill bit about ready to break through start the engine and let it idle (or idle up a little bit) and the exhaust will blow the cuttings out the hole you are drilling. Make sure and wear eye, face, hand and arm protection while doing this as even at idle there is quite a bit of pressure coming out.

Really cool rig!!! Great job! When are you going to start selling them?

Godspeed,
Trent

 

[BGlidewell]

The second picture from the top looks like you have plenty of room to drill and tap at the collector just above the turbo if that is a removable cowling.

 

[NoSeeUm]

I have 5 holes in my manifold now. Three with the the manifold on truck. I used a shop vac while drilling and heavy grease while tapping. Then cleaned the exhaust tube out with a pen magnet.



I would tap it on #6. From my experience the EGT can vary allot, but I don't know if is just my truck or not.



Another TDR thread



Nice job with the install, congratulations!



Jim