Transmission pan bolts
 

I put on a new transmission pan and and one of the bolts by the cross member wont tighten up because it appears to be stripped inside. Do I re tap it and if so what size tap and bolt to put in there? Also, it seem pretty hard getting that flywheel cover back on because of the radiator cooler lines, any tips on that? Thanks, Al

Re: Transmission pan bolts
 

The proper way to fix the stripped thread is to use a thread repair kit, like Helicoil. It will come with a special tap, several thread inserts, and an insertion tool. You will need a 21/64" drill. Once you're done, the threads will outlast you! I had to install 4 of them on a used TH350 I bought last year.

Just about any auto parts store will have kits made by Helicoil or another manufacturer.

Your pan bolt size is 5/16-18, aka 5/16 UNC.

You can probably find a "how-to" video on YouTube.

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTAyNFgzNz...VAWw1/$_58.JPG

Re: Transmission pan bolts
 

I just remembered this: If your damaged pan bolt hole is a "thru-hole", you could use a longer 5/16-18 bolt with a nut & washer on the top. Not as clean as using a HeliCoil, but it would work.

Re: Transmission pan bolts
 

Thank you all very much, Al

Re: Transmission pan bolts
 

Thank you MikeB! I bought the kit and it worked like a glove! Al