Common Questions & Answers

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This has to be everyones worse nightmare - You're replacing a gasket and the thread gets stripped on the mounting lugs or worse yet, you're over-zealous with the torque wrench and suddenly the head is no longer part of the bolt!

With Durafix, this major headache is no longer a problem. There are two methods to fix this problem:

1. Tap & Tread
   • Remove or drill out the damaged bolt.
   • Brush vigorously with the stainless steel brush, both around and in the hole. DO NOT USE A STEEL FILE. If neccessary you may need to purchase a small stainless steel or copper hole brush from your local hardware store.
   • For holes which are open both ends, use a small backing plate (stainless steel or iron) under the one end - this obviously stops the rod from running through
   • Heat the hole area and when you reach working temperature - feed the rod into the hole until you have completely filled the hole.
   • Leave the part to cool naturally.
   • Remove any excess by filing or grinding it away.
   • Drill the hole to the correct size - make sure you drill straight!
   • You can now tap the hole to the required size - problem solved
     
   
   
2. Using a Stainless Steel Bolt
   • This method is sometimes quicker and for those without a tread tap
   • Drill the hole out to one size larger than required (i.e. drill size M8 for a M6 bolt)
   • Brush as normal, in and around the hole with a stainless steel or copper brush.
   • Heat and start to fill the hole with the rod.
   • When the hole is half full, keep the heat on the hole - keeping the rod liquid - drop a stainless steel bolt into the molten rod, the correct thread size. i.ie. an M6 bolt
   • Now fill the remaining area, building it up slightly around the rim of the hole.
   • Using a good (insulated) vice grip or pliers, move the stainless bolt around in the molten rod, to release any air. Make sure the bolt is held in the correct position (make sure its straight).
   • Now remove the heat and cool the hole.
   • When the workpiece is cool, you can simply unscrew the stainless steel bolt and your hole is fixed and has the correct size thread.

It is important to make sure you keep the stainless bolt in the correct position, so that your thread lines up straight. Make sure you use well insulated grips and good quality welding gloves, so as not to burn your hands - safety first!