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In fact, lots of places design heli-coils [or other similar brands of inserts] into aluminum parts for high torque bolts...just because they are stronger. However, be sure that you have just as many threads [or more] engaged in the insert as were in the head. You can't hold a head bolt with 1/2 the number of engaging threads as it originally had. Sometimes this means that you have to buy a bottoming drill and tap to get all the engagement possible.
In fact, lots of places design heli-coils [or other similar brands of inserts] into aluminum parts for high torque bolts...just because they are stronger. However, be sure that you have just as many threads [or more] engaged in the insert as were in the head. You can't hold a head bolt with 1/2 the number of engaging threads as it originally had. Sometimes this means that you have to buy a bottoming drill and tap to get all the engagement possible.
I work for Gulfstream and we use them all the time on the aircraft.I've seen about every size that are made at work.Hey,if they use them in aircraft they gotta be strong.I haven't had to use any on my cars but I wouldn't hesitate.
Like copter said, helicoils are required in the aerospace industry if your going into aluminum. We even use them in steel. Other than tool cost, there is no downside to installing them. Use at least a 1.5D helicoil, 2D if possible. That means the length is 1.5 to 2 times the diameter.
If a Cadillac Northstar requires a head bolt repair, the ONLY approved method (by GM) is the use of a timesert insert. http://www.timesert.com/
When installed correctly, it's stronger than the original threaded aluminum.
The head bolt repair "Kit" for the Northstar engine was designed by GM in conjunction with Timesert.
A heli-coil repair is not recommended for the Northstar head bolt repair.
I would think that a heli-coil repair in a low torque application would be fine.
Barry