Fixing messed up threads in aluminum

[DaveB]

I messed up some threads in a very expensive hydraulic fan unit on my Grand Cherokee and have been looking for a way to fix the threads which are only messed up on the first two threads. I found that they make a slick tool to take care of the same problem in aluminum cylinder heads. You insert the tool and engage the good threads in the back of the hole then reverse the tool out which cleans the front threads. Here is a picture of the tool for spark plugs, does anyone know if they make a similar tool for hydraulic fittings ? I may have to see if I can make one if not.

 

[sawtooth4x4]

why not just run a thread tap from the back side to straighten them up?

 

[DaveB]

why not just run a thread tap from the back side to straighten them up?

The fitting is in a housing that doesn't allow access from the back side. I hopefully fixed it tonight. I took one of the ends off the old hose and made a tap out of it. I split the fitting much like the tool in the picture above then pinched the cut end giving it a taper like a tap. I then threaded the tap into the hole and cleaned up the threads. Hopefully it holds under pressure.

 

[Tonkaman]

It should hold. I have used that same method at work a few times and we rest to 200 psi

 

[Shawn]

Interesting tool, thanks for sharing!

 

[DaveB]

It is back on the road and looks like it is working just fine. Now I need to thaw out, fixing stuff outside in this cold is a pain.