Cleaning up rusted, galled, twisted threads?

[ShooterMcGavin]

The parts under my 4Runner have some rust (big surprise). Not only that, but once in a while I get some threads that are galled, worn, seized, or cross-threaded. What do you use to solve the problem?

I see 2 options...
1. A thread restorer kit, which I have used before with good results. It was meant for the job and might be the best for it.
2. A tap and die kit. It can be used to re-chase ruined threads, but it also has the ability to cut new threads.

The truth is that I have never really needed to cut new threads, but I am wondering if the tap and die set might be higher quality, and it is nice to have tools that perform other options. If the thread restorer kit is the better option for what I need to do, I'll probably just go with that choice.

What have you used and what do you prefer?

 

[pattycakes77]

I have a tap and die set and also a thread restore kit at work. I use the thread restore kit more just because I rarely need to cut new threads. If I feel like something isn't threading in/on properly or hardware is a bit rusty I'll run the correct thread restore bit on it and it usually fixes it up. Next option is new hardware. One thing with my kit (Mac Tools) it only goes up to a certain size so it won't do really big stuff like tie rods etc. Third option is a wire brush to clean up exposed threads and run a nut or bolt down with some lube to clean up the threads.

I had my adjustable pan hard bar off a couple years ago after installing new and driving in iowa for about 6 years. Couldn't get the jamb nut loose so I chucked it in the vise, threw a torch on it till it was red, pb blaster was boiling inside it, and with some very strong men turning it we could never get it loose. Completely seized. Sometimes no matter what, New is the only option.

 

[Buckaroo]

I use the thread restorer kit to clean up threads....the tap & die will remove metal which you would like to avoid. FYI....the following SnapOn, Mac, Kastar and Craftsman sets are identical...
RTD40 40pc Master Rethreading Kit - Kastar 972, Craftsman 52105, MAC TRCOMBO
RTD48 48pc Master Rethreading Kit - Kastar 971, Craftsman 9712750, MAC TRCOMBO-48

Craftsman 48 pc version currently $44.96....
48-pc SAE Metric Thread Restorer Kit: Get Craftsman Quality from Sears

Buckaroo

 

[7echo]

Another option would be thread files.

Also, whenever I remove a bolt or nut I will usually apply a little anti-seize. Makes it a lot easier next time, for me or whoever ends up with the vehicle next.

 

[ShooterMcGavin]

Thanks for the tips. I have an autoparts store that will rent out a thread restorer kit for free. I think I might buy one though, to avoid the back and forth trips. Seems like a good kit to have for an old car owner.

Another option would be thread files.

Also, whenever I remove a bolt or nut I will usually apply a little anti-seize. Makes it a lot easier next time, for me or whoever ends up with the vehicle next.

Good advice. I came from the east coast, where everything rusts in the salt. I am a diehard anti-seize user.

 

[ShooterMcGavin]

I use the thread restorer kit to clean up threads....the tap & die will remove metal which you would like to avoid. FYI....the following SnapOn, Mac, Kastar and Craftsman sets are identical...
RTD40 40pc Master Rethreading Kit - Kastar 972, Craftsman 52105, MAC TRCOMBO
RTD48 48pc Master Rethreading Kit - Kastar 971, Craftsman 9712750, MAC TRCOMBO-48

Craftsman 48 pc version currently $44.96....
48-pc SAE Metric Thread Restorer Kit: Get Craftsman Quality from Sears

Buckaroo

Thanks for pointing that out, and for the link.

 

[ShooterMcGavin]

Does the 40 piece set have anything that the 48 piece set does not?

 

[Rifter]

I usually use the repair kits, worst case drill it out and throw a heli coil in it.

 

[ShooterMcGavin]

Update: I bought the Craftsman rethreading kit recommended by Buckaroo. Thanks!

It arrived today. Besides all the glowing reviews, it is nicely built. I bought it even though I can rent the tools right down the street for free. It seems like it is a kit that I will be able to use often and appreciate not having to wait until the store is open to borrow the pieces. I already have a couple places where it will come in handy.

Thanks for the help, all!