Features of TIME-SERT Thread Repair Kits for Cylinder Head Bolt Holes
May 17, 2023 Head Gasket Repl., TIME-SERT Kits No Comments
We offer a wide range of head bolt thread repair kits that are designed to provide a lasting and effective repair for your vehicle. Our kits made by Time-Sert, are highly recommended by many automobile manufacturers like Toyota, GM, and Honda.
When it comes to repairing cylinder heads, it’s important to preserve the line-up dowels for precise alignment. Some line-up dowels are solid and are not in the head bolt hole. Others are hollow and fit in the head bolt hole. Sometimes guys call these line-up bushings. These hollow type line-up dowels like the ones seen in the image above, ensure that the cylinder head aligns properly with the engine block, which is crucial for the engine’s performance and functionality. That’s why using a kit like Time-Sert, which retains the use of the line-up dowels, is the way to go. Some other brand kits make the hole bigger and eliminate them which seems a bit risky.
Another key factor to consider is the type of inserts used. Time-Sert inserts have fine threads, which offer better strength, precision, and reliability compared to coarse threads. Coarse threads can be weaker, less precise, and more prone to cross-threading during installation. They may also lead to poor sealing and other issues with engine performance.
Now, let’s talk about the advantages of Time-Sert’s approach. Time-Sert uses a smaller outside diameter (OD) insert with finer threads, which has several benefits. First, it removes only as much material as necessary, unlike a one-size-fits-all approach that removes a large amount of the block regardless of the bolt size. This helps prevent cracks or intrusion into oil or water jackets.
The smaller OD insert also puts less stress on the block, reducing the risk of block cracking. It provides a more precise fitment, minimizing the chances of leaks or improper torque settings. Additionally, the finer threads create a larger contact area, distributing the load more evenly and increasing the strength of the repair. This approach also offers greater versatility, accommodating a wider range of thread sizes and types.
Time-Sert’s “timed” and synchronized threads are unique. These “Timed” insert feature ensures precise thread engagement, better load distribution, improved torque retention, and easier installation. The threads engage at the same time, creating a secure and stable connection. They distribute the load evenly, reducing stress on the threads and the surrounding material. This leads to better torque retention and a more reliable repair. The installation process is also smoother and less prone to cross-threading or other installation issues.
Lastly, let’s discuss the self-locking feature of Time-Sert. During installation, the bottom internal threads of the insert are cold rolled, which expands the mating external threads into the base material. This self-locking design ensures that the insert remains securely in place, even in high-stress applications like cylinder heads or engine blocks. It provides a more secure and reliable repair compared to inserts that only bottom out in the hole. Those inserts without self-locking mechanisms may be prone to backing out or coming loose over time, leading to leaks, loss of torque, or even engine failure.
So, to summarize the benefits of Time-Sert thread repair kits for cylinder head bolts: they retain line-up dowels for precise alignment, use inserts with fine threads for better strength and precision, feature a smaller OD insert with finer threads for a more secure and effective repair, offer timed and synchronized threads for improved engagement and torque retention, and provide a self-locking mechanism for a reliable and long-lasting repair.
When it comes to head bolt thread repair, don’t settle for just any kit. Removing cylinder heads is very time consuming. Using a sub-par thread repair kit just doesn’t make sense. That’s why after researching and weighing the differences, most guys choose Time Sert since it’s a trusted brand. If you have any questions or need assistance, our team is ready to help. Just give us a call at 800-524-9783 or use our Contact Form to get in touch. Remember, a wise repair is a lasting repair!
