Thermostat Housing Issue

[Allmand]

Hello again,

Last night I proceeded to take the manifold housing apart so I could clean it out with a wire brush....I noticed a silicone type substance all around the base of the housing. When I put the housing back together and started to bolt the two bolts down...the one on the left slips past the threads. After a few turns it pops, and loosens again.

Is there a way to fix this without replacing the housing? I know I should just replace the housing and piece that it bolts down to (and I will) but I just want a repair to get me out on the water this weekend. Could I put locktite down in the threads, then the new gasket, and some type of silicone on tope of the gasket between the two pieces and the bolt it down?

Any other suggestions?

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

Howdy,



Sounds like the holes are stripped. (someone tightened it too much)


You might be able to get a tap in there for the next size bolts. Otherwise you may have to install Helicoils.

 

[dpoff]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

I drilled and tapped mine next size over. 10 minute job.

 

[Allmand]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

dpoff.....forgive my ignorance, but where can I get a tap? What do they look like? So drill the hole out with a regular bit and use this tap to make new threads?

where can I get this tap?

 

[LAC_STS]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

You can get them at any hardware store like Home Depot or Lowes.

They sell kits with different sizes Starting at $15 and up. Or you can buy individual ones for whatever size you need.

 

[arnettmark]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

A hardened or titanium bit is best, softer bits will get eaten up. Bits and a tap can be a had for a couple of bucks at your local auto parts store. When drilling, make sure you keep that bit straight, as harder bits tend to be more brittle and can snap.

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

Re: Thermostat Housing Issue

They also have different type of taps, some with a flat end and some with a more pointed end. The poined end will be easier to start new threads. The flat end taps are more for chasing existing threads to clean them up.

The tap that you get should also be stamped with the correct size drill bit to use so the threads that are made are the correct thickness. Make sure to use the correct size drill bit.

My local true value hardware has a large selection of taps, way more than HD.
Eric