Screw up the threads on a bolt? First, try slowly and carefully running a nut up and down in the threads. If you’re having a tough time getting the nut started, try to run the bolt backward, then forward.
No joy? Then break out a thread restoration tool, like the one shown here. This device clamps around a bolt and straightens/cuts new threads. It’s pretty much universal, and a tightening system allows you to vary the pressure you need.
Stripped out the part that the bolt screws into? That’s a tougher situation. Sometimes the easiest fix is just to use a longer bolt and put a nut on the end. If not, you can just drill out the hole and tap in new threads for the next oversized bolt. You can also drill out the hole and install a new (steel) threaded insert. Next time, use a torque wrench!
Screw up the threads on a bolt? First, try slowly and carefully running a nut up and down in the threads. If you’re having a tough time getting the nut started, try to run the bolt backward, then forward.
No joy? Then break out a thread restoration tool, like the one shown here. This device clamps around a bolt and straightens/cuts new threads. It’s pretty much universal, and a tightening system allows you to vary the pressure you need.
Stripped out the part that the bolt screws into? That’s a tougher situation. Sometimes the easiest fix is just to use a longer bolt and put a nut on the end. If not, you can just drill out the hole and tap in new threads for the next oversized bolt. You can also drill out the hole and install a new (steel) threaded insert. Next time, use a torque wrench!