Stripped exhaust header screw hole.

[whalford1]

I just bought an '82 GS1100L with an aftermarket Mac 4-into-1 exhaust. Yesterday I noticed that where the header bolts up to the head, that one bolt was missing. The hole that is missing the bolt is stripped.

Which is the better option? Tapping the hole for a larger diameter bolt, or using a Heli Coil with the same size bolt (if available)?

Or if a Heli Coil isn't available in that size, maybe a close-sized non-metric that I can get a Heli Coil for?

What do you guys think?

[Remington44-77]

Try the Heli-coil first. It is an excellent repair although a little expensive to purchase the tool set( drill bit, tap, coil driver and coils). I wouldn't hesitate to use a Heli-coil.

[whalford1]

That's what I was thinking. ANd it would save the hole from stripping again. The question is, is there a Heli Coil made in the same size and thread pitch as the factory bolt?

[Agemax]

That's what I was thinking. ANd it would save the hole from stripping again. The question is, is there a Heli Coil made in the same size and thread pitch as the factory bolt?

yes, M8 x 1.25 thread. widely available from tool stores or ebay

[loud et]

That's what I was thinking. ANd it would save the hole from stripping again. The question is, is there a Heli Coil made in the same size and thread pitch as the factory bolt?

yep, I just got the kit at advanced auto parts. its an m8 1.25 repair kit.
regardless, take one of your other bolts for them to measure and check thread pitch.
Some guys lose the bolts and change to studs. do a search on the forum for header studs or exhaust studs.

[1980GS1000E]

Studs, all the way.

[GateKeeper]

Studs, all the way.

Why Thank You, yes I am.....



LOL


sorry couldn't resist....

.

[Remington44-77]

So there you have a consensus. Heli-coil it and put in a set of studs.