Helicoil Harbor Freight (2024)

FAQs

Is a helicoil a permanent fix? ›

Heli-Coil^® Kits - Thread Repair Kits & Master Sets

Restore stripped threads easily and permanently with Heli-Coil thread repair kits and master sets. Heli-Coil application-specific thread repair kits make complex repairs manageable and are often the recommended solution by both domestic and foreign automakers.

However, key inserts provide an alternative to helicoils and they have their own set of inherent benefits and flaws. Key inserts became popular because of the ability to quickly repair stripped or damaged threads without having to discard the original part.

Insert installation depth is dependent on the presence of a countersink (3/4 to 1-1/2 turns below the surface with a countersink and 1/4 to 1/2 turns below the surface without a countersink). Tangless CoilThread Insert installation is now complete.

The tang is a small segment of the end of the insert that extends into the middle of the coil. With tanged inserts, the tool uses the tang to grip the coil and screw it into place. Once the helicoil is installed, the tang is broken off and removed.

Consequently the insert then begins to wind out as the thread is undone. Another disadvantage of helical coil type inserts is that they are sometimes harder to fit than a solid bush. This applies especially In deep or inaccessible holes.

One of the advantages of using a helical insert is that it increases fastener strength and longevity. Free-running coil inserts reduce stress and fatigue while maximizing thread strength and increasing reliability.

Do I need special tools to install helicoils? Yes, the tap and installation tool must be precise for the helicoil you're using.

Use HELICOIL® wherever low shear strength materials – such as aluminium or aluminium-magnesium alloys – are used. In these applications HELICOIL® thread inserts generate heat-resistant, wear-resistant and high-strength thread of the highest precision. No internal thread wear, even with frequent use.

HELI-COIL TAPS

The taps supplied with kits and sets are referred to as STI or Screw Thread Insert taps. These taps must be used for Heli-Coil repairs. The STI taps supplied for standard thread repair look like conventional taps and may be used with the same tap handle as conventional taps.

Do you put Loctite or some type of threadlocker on a Heli-coil? John Talley: It's not required, and depending on, well I like Time Serts better than Heli-coils, but if I had to use a Heli-coil, yeah I probably would. That's just a personal preference.

What is another name for a Heli-Coil? ›

They are also often called a screw thread insert or a Helical insert, but the popular brand name is Heli-Coil, a registered trademark of Emhart Teknologies.

While the Acme Keylocking Threaded Insert is locked into place in the parent material by its locking keys, the Heli-Coil® insert depends on friction to keep it in place. This is not always enough to handle the job and can come out. Heli-Coil® inserts have tangs that need to be broken off after installation.

Removing helicoils is a very difficult task, but it can be done with a helicoil extraction tool. This tool has a sharp blade that must be inserted at the top of the helicoil, and while being held in position strike the back of the tool with a hammer.

But Helicoils are cheap to install and work well. If they are inserted correctly and the plugs are not allowed to corrode in-place they should last a lifetime.

Though their depth is short and inherently weak, Heli-Coils are often made of strong materials, like stainless steel. They work well with aluminum, plastic, and other softer materials. But they're not strong enough to effectively fasten stainless steel parts unless they have a special coating.

In general, locking helicoils are not reusable. Once they are installed, they are meant to remain in place permanently. Attempting to remove a locking helicoil can damage the surrounding threads, which may require further repair. Additionally, the locking feature on these helicoils can make them challenging to remove.