Drill & Tap

[Chris]

Im sure we have all had this problem, what is the best way to drill and tap the bolt holes for the oil strainer cover. It obvious that we dont want a bunch of shavings in the oil afterwards. Im guessing that grease on the drill bit, as well as the tap will take car of most of it. As another measure I am gonna have someone hold the shop vac near while drilling/tapping. Please let me know what the best way to do this is??

[Dustin]

Grease is a good idea, I usually start with a much smaller bit and work my way up to the size it need to be drilled to. Between bit changed it allows you to clean out the shavings this leaves a small amount of shavings between bit changes. Also run a quart of oil throught the motor when your finished to clean it out

[Chris]

Thanks for the help, sounds like I have the concept, and should be fine.

Thanks again.

[Ruffuss]

Chris, a shop vac is good with grease and a quart or two oil bath to follow. Are you installing heli-coils or just tapping them? Later Kenn

[Chris]

well, what do you think? Helicoil vs. Tap? I am not partial to either one, and I havent started yet. Any input is greatly appreciated.

Chris

[Dustin]

I dont care for helicoils at all myself I would only do them as a very last resort

[Ruffuss]

Ya but with a coil you can retain the same size hole and not have tap bigger and/ or use a step stud.. And there available in metric sizes up to 14mm. Later Kenn

[Dustin]

If he doesnt drill it too big he can use the stock size tap and be fine. Ive had to do this a couple times most recently on an exhaust stud on a single port 1500