How to Repair Cross Threaded Bolts

by C.L. Rease
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bolt image by Sergey Galushko from Fotolia.com

Cross threading occurs when the threads of a bolt shift off center and cut into the female threads of a threaded hole or nut. The cross threading damage caused by the bolt occurs in the top female threads of the threaded hole or nut. Cutting new threads on the cross-threaded bolt and the damaged female threads will repair the damage.

Step 1

Match a socket to the head of the cross-threaded bolt. Attach the socket to a ratchet handle. Turn the bolt counterclockwise to remove it from the part.

Step 2

Thread the bolt into a thread gauge.

Step 3

Select a tap matching the diameter and the thread count of the bolt into a T-handle tap wrench. Pour cutting fluid onto the threads of the tap and damaged part threads.

Step 4

Turn the tap clockwise to thread it into the damaged part threads.

Step 5

Set the head of the bolt in a vise with the bolt threads facing up. Lock the head of the bolt into the vise jaws.

Step 6

Secure a die -- matching the bolt's size and thread count -- into a die socket. Turn the die socket clockwise to cut new threads on the bolt.

Step 7

Thread the bolt into the threaded part.

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