kcosh

In the process of replacing some components AGAIN!, found that threaded hole where tensioner bolts mounts the tensioner is stripped, any ideas on how to remedy? That oil pump cover is a pain to remove on vehicle.

tester123

I'd imagine the easiest thing is to create new threads with a tap next size bigger than current size. You might have to drill/expand the hole on the tensioner as well.

SloopJohnB@mac.com

That's easy...helicoil.
It will be stronger than the original if not the larger hole someone recommended. Plus te regional bolt size in the tensioner will work well.

SloopJohnB@mac.com

If u can do this you can helicoil it and don't have to mess with the tensioner.

tester123

I must say, never used it. But will keep in mind for future .

kcosh

I thought of the helicoil immediately but upon further investigation I noticed there was still about a 1/2 " of threads left in the hole. So I found longer bolt from my German xtras bolt box - probably from a BMW, chased the threads and sized the bolt appropriately, voila!. Hind sight tells me that something so important as a bolt for this purpose should utilize as many threads as possible - common steel to aluminum oil pump cover. Next one I do I will probably use longer bolt.

SloopJohnB@mac.com

I suspect the longer bolt will strip out as well. Should have helicoiled it. Downside of tensioner failure is bent valves on both heads or a broke piston, dead engine.