Stripped suspension threads? Repairs?

[DSMDEMON93]

Hello everyone, so recently my front end was making a clunking noise. As it turns out, the Bolts that hold the Compression arm (Lower control arm that's curved) were backing out.

To make matters worse, the bolts I removed were unmatching. The thread size was a M12x1.75, which is way too coarse over the stock threads. I purchased the OE bolts that mount the compression arm, but the threads won't engage into the frame, since they have been deformed.

The only solution I can think of is the use of a Helicoil set, to set new threads for the bolt to bind to, BUT my question is....Will a helicoil kit withstand the punishment of suspension components? The twist/flex/pull motion the car takes on the road? I wouldn't want the kit to fail, causing the arm to fall off and send me into the wall.

Any inputs? Opinions? Suggestions? They are all appreciated. Thanks!

 

[awdtalon4451]

No i don't think so bro. They (suspension) take a beating. Helicoils aren't made for something under a high torque or clamping load. Post some pics of it to give us a better idea how bad it is.

 

[pauleyman]

Helicoils weren't designed for thread repair. That's a secondary benefit. They were designed to make threads better and solve issues with repeated disassebly or other thread issues with cut threads. They are marketed to be better than a thread they replace in every fashion.
http://www.helicoil.in/pdf/HeliCoil Catalogue.pdf

Heli-Coil™ Insert Review - NewMetalworker.com

 

[honda_burner]

Can you tap the threads to clean them up? Alot of times on suspension parts things just get rusty.

 

[awdtalon4451]

Word! I must have been buying knock off helicoils . Never had any luck with them if it were under a high clamping load. Give it a shot. But first I'd try cleaning up the threads like stated above. You'd be surprised how much it helps

 

[Kapok6]

time serts are expensive but nice. I have used them several times.

 

[DSMDEMON93]

Well thank you everyone for your inputs. Everything was put down on the table into consideration. Great news! Finally had time to put the car on stands, and undo the compression arms for a better peek. I also bought a 12x1.25 tap and re-chased out 3 of 4 holes! I removed one bolt to find out it has broke off inside, but no worry, I'll extract it no problem, but looks like a good ol tap did the job. Thanks guys.

I'm debating whether or not to dab some loctite on a few bolts just for the sake of vibration, or am I just being a worry wart? Which I probably am.

 

[awdtalon4451]

Well thank you everyone for your inputs. Everything was put down on the table into consideration. Great news! Finally had time to put the car on stands, and undo the compression arms for a better peek. I also bought a 12x1.25 tap and re-chased out 3 of 4 holes! I removed one bolt to find out it has broke off inside, but no worry, I'll extract it no problem, but looks like a good ol tap did the job. Thanks guys.

I'm debating whether or not to dab some loctite on a few bolts just for the sake of vibration, or am I just being a worry wart? Which I probably am.

+1 on the loctite, blue should suffice.