I screwed the threads up

I tried to install my new bed step today and cross threaded one of the bolts. I have new bolts from the dealer but I'm not sure the best way to go forward. Any advice is welcome and appreciated.

 

We have a lot of members on this site that screw threads up. Some are professional thread derailers, like @Rock Lobster.

 

Chase the threads with a tap

 

You can try and run a tap.

 

If you do not have the correct Metric tap to run it through the body you can make a thread chaser out of bolt of the same size and thread pitch. Bring the new bolt to True Value/Ace Hardware and have them match it up. Take your hack saw and cut the threads of the new bolt at a slight angle. Grease it well and start threading it into the body straight.

 

Well the way I feel right now parting it out might work!

 

you got a tap set...easy peasy

 

And if you don't have a tap set, now is the perfect time to buy one!!

They are invaluable.

 

Get a tap and dye set, Harbor Freight Tools. I did the same on an old rusted VW bus I restored. Not the end of the world. Use some oil on the damaged threads and give it a try. Nice and slow!

 

If you have never used a tap before (not a beer tap), get some cutting oil and then make sure when you start that you are lined up and not caddywompis, then go slowly and back it out a few times to clear the chips.

 

Tripling down on running the threads with a metric tap. Most of the time, this is all that is required.

 

The other option is helicoil. Taps can work to some extent but many times they cut wrong on cross thread which requires you to drill and retap. Retaping requires different sized bolts. Helicoil allows you to drill, tap, and retain factory bolt size.

Below is an oil pan I installed all new helicoil on because PO stripped them like a noob.




Try a tap first with cutting oil. Should be able to do it by hand, not with a drill, and if that doesn’t work. Helicoil.

 

Thanks everyone for all your replies. i bought a tape and a t-handle and that did the job. It was a really nasty location to work the t-handle but patience won the day.

 

Cross threading is better than locktite! Just get a longer ratchet and keep cranking until it’s tight!