How to Repair Cross Threaded Bolts
by C.L. Rease
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.
References
Things You'll Need
- Socket
- Ratchet handle
- Thread gauge
- Tap set
- T-handle tap wrench
- Cutting fluid
- Vise
- Die set
- Die socket
