Tap bolt where coolant temp sensor

bp2930 · 06-10-2012, 05:13 PM

Hey anyone out there can help me out with this? On my engine block at the front of the block, on right side, on top of the block is that roughly 2 inch hollow housing for the coolant temp sensor. There are 2 bolts that go through the head over this housing that attaches to the block. The front bolt of these 2 bolts was broken of deep and I had to drill and use insert to secure it. My problem is that I drilled too deep and there is a hole at the bottom where I drilled. The insert secures good. I'm just worried about this hole. Does it matter? With the way the coolant circulates. The hole is only about 3/16. Could I just put some sealant and that should do it? Or should I
braze it? Any insight appreciated.

guru944 · guru944's Garage

Recommend posting pics to view specifics and possibly direct a solution..
Later.

89-944NA · 89-944NA's Garage

If you drilled all the way through you may want to use either anti-sieze or teflon tape (the tape may provide a better seal) and be aware that you may end up pulling the insert out if you ever have to remove that bolt again.

If you used a helicoil, I would strongly suggest that you spend the money and get a time-sert kit and do the repair properly.

If you have never seen a time-sert, it's a threaded steel collar that mounts flush with the deck, and when installed, the bottom of the sert expands and locks it into place. Unlike a helicoil, it won't turn out (or break) when you remove the bolt, and you can torque a time-sert.

If I understand correctly, you are speaking of the square "housing" on the left front of the head (Looking at the engine from in front of the car), if that is what you are speaking of, you will need time-sert kit #1812 (M8x1.25). The kit comes with the drill bit, the tool to counterbore the top of the hole, the tap, and the time-sert installation tool, and 5 time-serts. Kit runs about $65.00

bp2930 · 06-10-2012, 10:17 PM

Yes that's it where can you buy that kit. Can I get it local like at a home depot? and thanks for the help.

bp2930 · 06-10-2012, 10:27 PM

With the time sert will it stay secure if I have to remove bolt again?

89-944NA · 89-944NA's Garage

Yes it will stay secure, when you tighten the time sert and the head seats, you will feel the tool tighten, use a bit more force, and the tool will loosen, this is the sert spreading and locking in the hole. It's really quite easy, just follow the instructions included with the kit.

Sears has them, but they are way expensive there (the kit like the one in the picture is over $100), try a NAPA auto parts, or just about any tool supply house....as a last resort, you can get them online from amazon etc. Online price seems to be $67.30 most places, and one offers the kit at $67.30 with free shipping (I have no affiliation with these guys):

TIME-SERT Metric Kit M8 x 1.25 Part # 1812 - Mechanics Tools and Bits

These guys even have a video posted on the page to show you how to install the time-sert.

Hope this helps

bp2930 · 06-11-2012, 06:50 AM

Thanks for your help!!