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Stripped rear leaf spring bolt

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Old Jul 30, 2013 | 09:54 PM
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Default Stripped rear leaf spring bolt

I was doing some undercarriage work to my 71 today and noticed a stripped bolt on one of the four bolts that bolt the leaf spring to the rear end. I am assuming the rear end cover is cast material and don't see a easy fix.

I thought about putting a longer bolt in and putting a nut on the top but there is not enough because of the casting. has anyone had this problem? Thanks for the input.

Kevin
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Old Jul 30, 2013 | 10:44 PM
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Drill and retap with a Helicoil insert or equal. 9/16" national coarse.
You'll have to remove the spring first.
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 01:00 AM
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Had the same problem on my 78. I was going to drill it for an ease-out after soaking it for a few days with a liquid wrench type product (sorry do not remember the name, its been a while). When I started to drill the broken bolt just spun out! I got lucky on that one, but try the easy stuff first. Good luck.
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 01:32 AM
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Short of replacing the cover, a Heli-coil or other type insert is the best easy fix. IIRC the 2 forward bolts, if they are too long, can crack the cover and cause a leak.
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 04:08 AM
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I thought of a heli-coil but didn't know if it would hold that kind of torque?

Kevin
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 07:37 AM
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Originally Posted by grumman41
I thought of a heli-coil but didn't know if it would hold that kind of torque?

Kevin
A properly installed helicoil is stronger than original thread.

Joe
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 09:06 AM
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Use a "Time Sert" insert. Use them all the time in the Ford Triton heads. Often Helicoil won't hold for long.
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Old Jul 31, 2013 | 10:21 AM
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Originally Posted by Indiancreek
Use a "Time Sert" insert. Use them all the time in the Ford Triton heads. Often Helicoil won't hold for long.
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