guayabito

Hi guys:

Yesterday I decided to change all the pulleys on my 2008 mercedes C300. I replaced them all but when I went to tighten the idler pulley screw the thread on the socket gave in easily. It seems that it was already damaged from a previous replacement. I am driving the car like this because I have to go to work, but I do not know how long the pulley will stay in place.

What can I do in this situation?? The hole seems to be super deep, can I just put a longer screw?

Xzero

Sorry to hear about your issue.

My only suggestion is to use a tap & die set and try to rethread the hole.

If you’ve never used a set before, this isn’t the piece you want to learn on. In this case, bring it to a shop and they will hopefully be able to rethread it, depending on the current damage.

guayabito

Thank you for your answer

I have a tap and die set and I have used it before many times. I was wondering if anybody had any experience with this. Since the hole is so deep maybe I would jut use a longer screw and call it a day.

gamma300C

I use Helicoil inserts in areas that are subject to high pressure and heat with good results...but...I have used this product in areas that are not subject to the higher stresses seen elsewhere. This epoxy is good for 120 foot/lbs of torque and 300 F I believe (the more common "metal bondo putty" I have found craps out if any oil/gas fumes are around for any length of time). I am pretty **** about repairs and will go the extra mile but in low stress area, this stuff is great particularly, as you say. there are a few mm's of intact thread in the hole. Just an idea, no flaming please.

Loctite 236382 4.8ML Syringe Form-A-Thread

Let me just add that this epoxy seems as hard or harder than aluminum when properly applied...

Just204

I would use a product called time-sert, much better and permanent solution to any of the other options. I question if tapping would work in your situation as it seems the thread in the block is mostly ruined if it does which I assume. the only downside to a time-sert is the kit is freaking expensive, how far into the block does the bolt go about?

optimusprime m1

Please post a picture for further help . Engineer for 45 years ..

guayabito

If anybody is wondering what was the solution for this? I just left it like that. All the other wheels keep the stripped one in position with no apparent issues.