Thread Repair: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003 GMC Envoy XL, 2003 GMC Envoy, and 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required

J 42385-400 Thread Repair Kit
J 43965 Extension Kit

The thread repair process involves a solid, thin walled, self-locking, carbon steel, bushing type insert. During the insert installation process, the installation driver tool cold-rolls the bottom internal threads and expands the bottom external threads of the insert into the base material. This action mechanically locks the insert into place.

The tool kit J 42385-400 is designed for use with either a suitable tap wrench or drill motor. Limited access and larger hole repair may process better using a tap wrench. An extension J 43965 may also be necessary to drive the thread repair tooling dependent on access to the hole being repaired.

Fig 1: Identifying Tools Required For Thread Repair

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

It is critical that the drilling, counterboring and tapping of the hole to be repaired follows the same centerline as the original hole.

Fig 2: Drilling And Tapping Hole

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

During the drilling and tapping of the hole being repaired ensure the tooling is consistently machining perpendicular to the surface of the base material.

Fig 3: Ensuring Position Of Tool While Drilling Or Tapping

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.