Replaced T-stat, one stud won't stay in...

[stealthES13]

Replaced the t-stat on my 2001 T4R (319k)- the top stud and the PS bottom stud came out when I loosened the nuts. I tried to hand thread them back in then place the housing back over them... the top nut tightens to 14 ft lb, but as soon as the PS bottom nut starts to get tight the stud loosens up. I took both out to compare and they are the same length so I'm not sure why one will seat properly and the other won't. I had it all buttoned up and started adding coolant when it began to leak pretty bad, jumped under to ensure everything was snug when I noticed the issue with the PS bottom stud "floating".

Any ideas as to why this last stud won't seat and let me snug the nut against the housing so I can finish this job? Concerned the threads in the block might be stripped.

A buddy of mine suggested epoxying the stud in place... not sure how I feel about that and admit I'm out of my depth on that one.

Would a helicoil repair kit be a good solution?

 

[morriscole]

Replaced the t-stat on my 2001 T4R (319k)- the top stud and the PS bottom stud came out when I loosened the nuts. I tried to hand thread them back in then place the housing back over them... the top nut tightens to 14 ft lb, but as soon as the PS bottom nut starts to get tight the stud loosens up. I took both out to compare and they are the same length so I'm not sure why one will seat properly and the other won't. I had it all buttoned up and started adding coolant when it began to leak pretty bad, jumped under to ensure everything was snug when I noticed the issue with the PS bottom stud "floating". fall guys

Any ideas as to why this last stud won't seat and let me snug the nut against the housing so I can finish this job? Concerned the threads in the block might be stripped.

A buddy of mine suggested epoxying the stud in place... not sure how I feel about that and admit I'm out of my depth on that one.

Would a helicoil repair kit be a good solution?

Hello, If the stud is not seating properly and loosens when you tighten the nut, it’s possible the threads in the block are stripped. This would prevent the stud from gripping properly. If the threads are slightly worn but not completely stripped, using a thread sealant may help provide a better grip. Be cautious, though, as this is more of a temporary fix.