Retapping Timing Belt Cover lower bolt Hole?

[Fiat88]

Ok so I've tried the easy-out method in removing the broken bolt that holds the lower part of the plastic timing belt cover in place and it ended up snapping. Well, today I finally got the broken easy-out out!!! Cut a slot in it using a small dremel cut-off wheel, and turning it out with a scew driver and then some picks. So, I'm now just gonna drill out the broken bolt completely and retap the hole.

Question:

What size bolt and thread length does the cover use? Never used a tap and die set any tips would be very helpful. I'm gonna try to borrow a set from my friend if not Sears has some Metric Tap and die sets. Thanks for any help!

[narfire]

First is a good center punch and a good whack in the center of course. I'd suggest a heli-coil if you were going to drill out the hole completely. I'd think drilling and re-tapping there might not be enough "meat" to make new threds and the bolt might slop around. Up here lordco sells sets quite reasonably for that size hole and can then be used elswhere on the engine with ker f...led bolts ect. Some one else chime in 6X 1.25 thred?
Chris

[Fiat88]

The picture I posted is of the area before I drilled into it. I did use a center punch before drilling into the bolt and it looks dead center.

[ORFORD2004]

I also think that Heli-Coil is the way

[majicwrench]

If not cross threaded that still may come out. Cut it with that dremel cutoff wheel till you have a screwdriver slot. If won't move with screwdriver, tap gently with punch in the direction you want it to go.

If you do have to drill it all the way out you will damage the threads and then a Helicoil is the way to go. NAPA, many other place sell the kits.
Keith

[Fiat88]

Can anyone confirm the bolt size? I'm assuming all bolts for the cover are the same size, so if no one knows I check by looking at the other ones I have. Appreciate the help!

[pastaroni34]

The threads are M6x1, I do not know the length.

If you have a vibrapen, these can usually walk a stuck thread out.

Please do not use a tap from Sears. These are very very poor quality. My used taps are better.. send me your address and I'll send one your way. They were just going in the recycle bin otherwise.

[Fiat88]

PM sent. Thanks Jason!

[Fiat88]

Good news I successfully tapped a new thread for the lower belt cover hole. Thanks again Jason for the 6mx1 tap. First time I ever used a tap. Took about 2 hours today:

1. drilled out the old bolt
2. blew out any metal shavings with my compressed air can
3.put a coating of tap fluid on the tap and some in the hole
4. turn tap in hole clockwise a few turns then counterclockwise

Timing belt cover fits secure now!

[mdrburchette]

Great news!