DennisB DenLorsTools.com © Summary: Toyota Camry Toyota Rav4 and Highlanders with the 2.4 four cylinder engine has a very common problem with blown head gaskets due to the aluminum threads in the block failing for the head bolts. The middle three in the back of the head are usually the weak point. However, we recommend installing all 10 inserts to strengthen the threads so that it will be less likely to have a repeat problem. Most of the work is getting the head off, so why not spend a little more time to upgrade all the threads? Below are some of our most common questions when it comes to doing this type of repair. Read on for more information or continue to the TIME-SERT 2200 product listing.

Question “ Which thread repair kit is best when repairing the head bolt threads on a Toyota with a 2.4L engine with M11x1.5 threads?

Answer “ We sell the Helicoil 1130, however the best repair and the one that Toyota recommends when performing warranty work is the Time Sert 2200 head Bolt Thread Repair Kit. It uses a much better thread insert. It’s a solid bushing type insert instead of a thin coil of wire.

Question “ Why do I have to buy the entire kit since I only need to repair 3 holes?

Answer “ There is a reason and a specific purpose for every component in the kit. When doing one or all ten, every piece in the kit will be used to properly install the insert (or inserts). For instance, most people are not aware that the installation driver is what finishes the threads in the insert, expanding it, cold rolling it and locking it into place.

Question I’ve heard of Time Serts failing on a You Tube video. How do I know that the Time Sert 2200 (from DenLorsTools.com) is the best repair for my car?

Answer “ You will find varying opinions and experiences online. It’s our opinion that in the rare case that a Time Sert insert fails, it’s because of a error made in the installation. For instance, not completing the driver installation process before removing the driver. Also, permanent Loctiting the head bolt threads may cause the entire insert to be removed on the next time the head bolts are taken out. We recommend Permanent Loctite only on the exterior of the insert threads.

Question – How are the inserts held in?

Answer – The inserts are held in with permanent Loctite #266 which is included in the kit. They are also held in from the bottom when the installation driver cold rolls and expands the insert at the bottom locking it into place.

Question – Can I buy just a tap and an insert?

Answer – As we said before, there’s a reason for every tool in the kit, so we wouldn’t be doing anyone any favors by selling just enough tooling to set someone up for failure. We can however sell replacement tooling to previous customers that have worn tools out of a kit they already own. We also have bulk pricing on Time Sert 11155 inserts for machine shops and repair shops that need them due to frequent use of the kit.

Question – Will the Time Sert 2200 work if I had a previous Heli Coil repair fail?

Answer – No. An oversized repair will be needed, called the time Sert 2200BS. The BS stands for Big Sert and that is Time Serts designation for oversized.

Question – If I use the oversized Time Sert 2200BS kit, will I need larger head bolts?

Answer – No. The inside diameter is the same M11x1.5 so the original size bolts are used.

Question – Can I use the Time Sert 2200 on any other cars besides the Toyota Camry?

Answer – Yes. The Time Sert 2200 thread repair kit is a universal set. It can be used on any cars with M11x1.5 head bolts. The depth can be marked on the tooling which allows it to be used on other applications with the M11x1.5. The list is long, including all Toyotas like Rav4, Scion, some Hondas and even the Cadillac Northstar engines.

Question – Does the engine have to come out to do this repair?

Answer – No. The repair is done right in the vehicle, so there’s no need to remove the block. If your mechanic has suggested removing the block and sending to a machine shop, please give them our phone number and we’ll be happy to talk with them about our kit (800-524-9783 x251).

Question – Why did Toyota use aluminum for their block instead of good old cast iron?

Answer – Aluminum is used in all cars now for blocks, heads and many other components to reduce overall vehicle weight in order to increase fuel mileage. The government requirements mandate that MPG (miles per gallon) be increased. This is one way to achieve this.

Question – Do you rent the Time Sert kits?

Answer – NO. We considered renting them at one time and decided against it. One drawback of renting this type of tool out is wear and tear from many different renters on the tooling. The tooling may be rented out hundreds of times which would obviously result in wear. Most likely would be rented by DIYers, since professional techs would be more likely to purchase their own. Using badly worn tooling on your engine block may result in a failure of the insert to hold. For instance, if a worn driver is used it could possibly damage the threads or not expand the insert fully, resulting in it not being locked in properly. Or the hole wouldn’t be reamed cleanly to begin with to prepare for the threads for the insert.

Question – I see these kits all over the place on the Internet for sale, all at the same price. Do they ever go on sale?

Answer – The reason the Time Sert kits are all the same price no matter where you look is because of MAP requirements from the manufacturer, which stands Minimum Advertised Pricing. We at WiseAutoTools.com and DenLorsTools.com offer extra value in the Time Sert 2200 kits that we sell by providing free expedited shipping. If you would rather take a discount and receive free ground shipping call us for daily specials that we cannot advertise (WiseAutoTools.com 800-734-8665 or DenLorsTools.com 800-524-9783).

Question – What makes DenLorsTools.com and WiseAutoTools.com qualified to answer questions on head bolt thread repair?

Answer – Our questions are answered by Dennis Bandy, a master tech with over 30 years hands on experience working on cars and light trucks. Other online companies may not have the experience necessary to provide helpful, information related to the application and correct use of the Time Sert line. We work hard everyday, to provide extra information and assistance, that helps to set us apart from other sellers that would be just as happy selling brooms or other widgets to make a living. We understand the need for knowledgeable advice and truly appreciate your business.

The Time Sert 2200 kit is also available at WiseAutoTools.com. If there any questions not covered above, please comment below and Dennis will answer quickly. When ready to purchase, please visit one of our websites or give us a call.