How to re-thread wheel carrier?

[GreigM]

I was changing my front rotors today and one of the caliper bolts had obviously been put in carelessly by whoever did this last, and was very difficult to remove and destroyed the threading. When I went to tighten the new bolt it would not tighten and just spins - what can I do? Can the hole be re-threaded, or will I have to replace the wheel carrier? I don't want to drive the car without all caliper bolts properly tightened.

[Loren]

Well a new caliper is about $605.90 (US) retail so you might want to consider drilling it out and putting in an insert. If you have never done that before then you might get a quote from a machine shop. Or... buy a used caliper (if you can find one).

[Stefan]

I believe there is also a process whereby you put in some sort of liquid metal then rethread but I'm not familiar with that process.

I believe that you can find new calipers for under $300 online.

[GreigM]

I thought the caliper itself wasn't threaded, just the wheel carrier?

[ar38070]

The caliper is fine. You just need to replace the wheel carrier.

[GreigM]

Thanks guys, suppose better safe than sorry when it comes to brakes, I'll replace the carrier - only about $300.

[Tool Pants]

What is it with UK gorilla mechanics?

http://www.boxa.net/forum/index.php?showto...05entry155605

[Loren]

I thought the caliper itself wasn't threaded, just the wheel carrier?

Sorry mis-read your post.

[GreigM]

ToolPants - the last person to do this on my car was also an OPC mechanic - nice to see that we are paying premium rates to get the best of service :blink:

[GreigM]

Another thought - if I have to replace the wheel carrier, does that mean I will have to get my geometry re-set?

[ar38070]

It is possible to remove the front wheel carrier without removing the strut. It is not the easiest way to remove it though. You will need to fully compress the spring and strut. Alternatively if you mark the position of the nuts that hold the top of the strut to the body you can put it back pretty much in the same spot so that the alignment is retained.

There is a system call helicoil that allows you to drill out the original threads and insert a threaded body to replace the old threads. The kit usually runs about $50. I do not know if they make the correct size or if it is recommended for this use.

[PiG]

Any update on this, as I have the same problem :(

[Richard Hamilton]

Any update on this, as I have the same problem :(

Paul

I had the same problem on mine, and had TimeSert thread inserts fitted to repair it. Work was done by my friend Tony Wright (Wrightune in Wallingford) so fairly local to you. Give him a call on 01491-826911 (www.wrightune.co.uk).

[PiG]

Cheers Richard, yes I know wrightune.