Oil Pan Tap and Die.

[Dustin]

I know Eric posted a how to video on this but since I do not have a grind wheel or a hacksaw I was wondering if using a tap and Die to fix a aluminium oil pan and upping the size of the bolt would be a good fix. 1995 Kawasaki ZX6R(f)

Topic

[Its me]

I would recommend a Heli-coil before drilling and tapping a bigger bolt…

http://www.handsontools.com/HeliCoil-5546-8-Coarse-Thread-Repair-Kit–M8-x-125-x-120mm_p_9195.html

-Karl

[Dustin]

Okay I looked up a video of how its done, how is just threading new threads(what?)in going to make it less likely to leak, and stay in? I would prefer to just leave the oil pan on as well it looks like I would leave quite a few metal shavings inside the bike this way, more so then a tap and die.

[Stephen Bowen]

[quote=”CPT_Ross” post=103511]Okay I looked up a video of how its done, how is just threading new threads(what?)in going to make it less likely to leak, and stay in? I would prefer to just leave the oil pan on as well it looks like I would leave quite a few metal shavings inside the bike this way, more so then a tap and die.[/quote]

Either method used will require the use of a drill and a tap. It’s usually better to stick with the factor sized hardware, and avoid having to drill out for a larger bolt in the oil pan. (plus it looks more ‘professional’ to have uniform hardware as intended)

The helicoil is about as simple as it gets. The ‘tap’ supplied with the helicoil will have a drill bit size. Drill it out exactly per instructions, use their supplied “tap”. The coil insert goes into the threads you just cut. The coil itself becomes the new threads for the fastener and will be the same size as the rest. (provided you selected the correct size on the package to match your broken bolt)

It’s a sweet operation and usual works a treat. Of course you can just drill it out and tap it using the bolt you wish. Everyone has their own style and techniques.

S-

[EricTheCarGuy]

Many people brought that up in the comments of the video you mentioned. It’s not my preferred method but it can work. A word of caution. If you’re drilling into the oil pan you will leave a bunch of metal shavings behind. I would recommend removing the pan to do the repair and thoroughly cleaning it before installing it back on the engine.

[Author]

Replies