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!

Dennis, here with a rundown of the different types of thread repair kits for vehicles that have aluminum components in their engines. Whether you’re dealing with stripped spark plug, head bolt, oil drain plug, exhaust manifold, or glow plug threads, a thread repair kit can be a lifesaver. But you’ve got to make sure you’re using the right one.

First things first, if you want to prevent stripped threads, start things by hand before breaking out the air tools! Use the correct torque specs and tightening patterns during installation. This will avoid over-torqueing, cross-threading and improper installation, all of which can lead to stripped threads.

Now, when it comes to repairing stripped threads, it’s all about using a high-quality thread repair kit like the Time-Sert brand. Don’t cheap out and use a temporary fix from the parts store, those can end up costing you more in the long run. And make sure you’re using the right kit for the job – different threads require different types of inserts.

For spark plug threads, you’ll want to use a kit with a method of holding the insert in from the bottom. The Time-Sert thread repair kit is a great option for this, as it locks the insert in place from the bottom and comes with all the necessary tools and instructions. Taper seat and washer seat plugs use different inserts. Use the wrong one and there could be a compression leak.

For head bolt threads, avoid using wire coils and opt for solid inserts for a strong and reliable repair. And make sure you’re using a kit that’s approved by car manufacturers for warranty repairs. Even if your vehicle is long out of warranty, the fact that it would be approved means that it’s a quality repair. TTY (Torque to Yield) head bolts need to be replaced during a cylinder head gasket job replacement in most cases.

When it comes to oil drain plug threads in aluminum oil pans, use a solid bushing type insert with an expanding bottom to hold it in place. And don’t worry – the repair can be done without removing the oil pan! The threads you end up with are stronger than the original when using one of our Time Sert kits.

For exhaust manifold threads, choose a kit with a tap guide to go along with the kit to ensure accuracy and precision during the repair process. And be cautious not to break an EZ out if a stud is broken during the repair process. If dealing with a broken EZ Out check out our Rescue Bit section. Those bits are made of Tungsten Carbide and can drill out some crazy stuff. We’ve had customers drill of broken extractors and even broken drill bits.

Finally, for glow plug threads, make sure to remove any broken pieces of the glow plug using a broken glow plug extractor before using a thread repair kit. And select a kit specifically designed for use with glow plugs for a proper fit and to prevent leaks. We have a couple of glow plug thread repair kits used on Sprinter engines and Duramax.

Now, the cost of repairing stripped threads using a thread repair kit can vary depending on the situation, but investing in quality and reliability can save you money in the long run. And of course, always follow Time Sert’s instructions carefully and there are some helpful videos online too.

If you need expert assistance in finding the right kit for your specific needs, contact DenLors Tools for help. We’ve been selling specialty tools and aluminum thread repair kits since 2005 and are always happy to help you choose the right kit for the job.