Spark Plug Thread Repair Kit

The Force power

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Feb 3, 2019
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2,350
download.png I have a "spare" head of a 85/90 HP Force kicking around with the #1 plug-threads stripped.
Does anybody had Success with installing repair coils? (I did one on my snowblower once & was not too thrilled )
 

Redbarron%%

Chief Petty Officer
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Dec 7, 2017
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There are several different kinds of thread repair kits available. Look carefully to see if there is already a helicoil installed from the factory( I don't know it there is or not, but some manufacturers of engines with aluminum heads do use them.
A helicoil repair should work just fine. There are other methods that install a "sleeve" that is threaded ID and OD that you bore a little larger hole for.
I would try helicoil first. The stainless helicoil should work fine since although salt water will cause IG corrosion between the stainless and aluminum here should be no water near the spark plug threads to cause the problem.
 

The Force power

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Feb 3, 2019
Messages
2,350
There are several different kinds of thread repair kits available. Look carefully to see if there is already a helicoil installed from the factory( I don't know it there is or not, but some manufacturers of engines with aluminum heads do use them.
A helicoil repair should work just fine. There are other methods that install a "sleeve" that is threaded ID and OD that you bore a little larger hole for.
I would try helicoil first. The stainless helicoil should work fine since although salt water will cause IG corrosion between the stainless and aluminum here should be no water near the spark plug threads to cause the problem.

Hey Redbarron, thanks for the reply

No helicoil present, I've worked with helicoils before in compressor heads (not a fan of them)
You're right about the thread-insert; that they could cause corrosion in the long run (water or no water present.
As I said earlier; I have used it once on my snowblower (about 5 years ago) and it held...so far.
(mind you, I have not pulled the spark-plug either)

I was just curious, to see if anybody had experience with it? (I hate to throw out parts if can be saved)
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Jul 23, 2011
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50,230
look up thread-sert or time-sert. its a solid solution vs the helicoil
 

Redbarron%%

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Dec 7, 2017
Messages
479
By the way most aircraft cylinders use helicoils for the spark plug threads. The secret is the staking of the helicoils to keep them from shifting. however few aircraft engines are exposed to salt water.
 
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