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How do you fix a stripped bolt hole in an engine block?
I was using a torque wrench on my engine block and wasn’t paying attention. I somehow managed to strip the bolt hole completely and now the bolt won’t go back in. How can I fix a stripped bolt hole in my engine block?
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Accidents happen, but thankfully, you can fix a stripped bolt hole in your engine block.
There are a few different methods to fixing a stripped bolt hole, but the most common are:
- Threaded inserts
- Epoxy
- Drill and tap
In most cases, a threaded insert kit is the easiest way to fix a stripped bolt hole. The kit comes with a specialized drill bit, which allows you to enlarge the bolt hole. From there, you can insert the threaded insert. Once it’s flush with the engine block, you can screw the bolt in.
If you don’t want to deal with a kit, you can also try the drill and tap method. With this method, you’ll use a drill bit to expand the stripped hole. Once enlarged, you’ll tap the hole to add threads. Once tapped, you can use a bolt one to two sizes larger.
Finally, if you aren’t looking for anything with intense hold, consider using epoxy. Using epoxy means you don’t have to adjust the bolt size, but it’s not as strong as a threaded insert.
To use the epoxy, you’ll fill the bolt hole and then twist the bolt into it. The threads on the bolt will push the epoxy into the old threads. Once the epoxy sets, you’ll have a threaded bolt hole.
While you can certainly perform these fixes at home, if you feel stressed at any point, consider reaching out to a
mechanic
. They’ll likely have all the necessary tools to rethread your engine block’s bolt hole without any hassle. Another easy way to keep your life hassle-free is by using
Jerry
to purchase car insurance. A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and will even help you cancel your old policy. The average Jerry driver saves $887 a year on car insurance.View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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