helicoil vs timeserts

Canary95GT · Feb 17, 2011

302 with stock heads which kit is the best to use for a spark plug hole? And which size kit do you order? There are so many out there need some assistance.....any success with them holding up?

Paul · Feb 17, 2011

Spark plug thread is M14x1.25 if memory serves me correctly. I have a pretty nice thread-sert kit at home. I can look at it when I get home to provide more information. It basically has a threaded piece that screws into the existing threads on the heads to center and align the tool, then as you screw it in, it cuts new (larger) threads. Then you screw in a solid insert (not a heli-coil), which is then set in place by loc-tite and a punch which expands and seats the insert permanently. Worked like a champ on my aluminum heads which had really fvcked up spark plug threads. I think it was like $50 maybe?

Paul.

Canary95GT · Feb 17, 2011

thanks paul.....can this be done with the head on if properly done...ex. vacuum tube to get the metal out of the plug holes ??

Paul · Feb 17, 2011

I deleted the other threads since they're on the same topic. Only need one thread in one forum.

Anyway, I suppose you could probably do it with the heads on the motor. Just grease up the spark plug holes to ensure it catches the metal shavings. Make sure you thoroughly clean and vacuum everything out at the end as well. I did mine with the heads off the car.

I used a HeliCoil Sav-A-Thread Spark Plug Port Repair Kit, Part Number 5334-14. I also ordered extra inserts with HeliCoil Part Number R5316-14N.

http://www.amazon.com/Helicoil-5334-14-Thread-Thread-Repair/dp/B0002SRF4O
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/p-1537-helicoil-r5326-14n.aspx

Paul.

Addermk2 · Feb 17, 2011

I would strongly suggest doing this job with the heads OFF the car. If they were an aluminum head, i'd be less concerned about it because if anything got left behind, its still a soft metal, and would be expelled with relative ease. The iron from the stock heads though... might be a bit more stubborn if you get any into the cylinders.

I think you should just replace the heads. IMHO this kind of repair is meant to save a set of expensive aftermarket heads. You could buy another set of E7's for the same cost as this kit. Hell!!! someone might even GIVE you their stock heads!