Stripped zerk fitting threads on a 1947 H-D Springer Rocker

[knuckgush]

Hello. I’ve looked all over for some help with a stripped fitting on my ‘47 Knuck Springer rocker. I tried looking for a helicoil that’s is 5/16”-32, but it doesn’t exist anywhere. Any help would be much appreciated!

[jim d]

I would consider filling the hole with hi-temperature silver solder and then drill and tap it to the original size. There really isn’t any stress on the threads for holding a zerk.
But someone else may have a better solution.

[RichO]

If it was me and I didn't want to mess up the parkerized finish and just wanted to hold the zerk I would take the rocker off and paint the hole inside with JB weld and retap it. If the hole is cleaned well and the epoxy mixed well it will tap clean and hold the threads. Goggle JB weld and look at it's properties. It's not a joke like some think it. Zerk no pressure threads no problem.

[Rmcalister]

This might be worth a try but might be a dud website..? Has helicoil listed for the size you are looking.

https://www.msi-viking.com/mahr-TS-63-INSERT-HELI-COIL-516-32

[ChiefTwoKicks]

I've used a Loctite product for applications that are far more demanding than what you require for your specific needs. I've used this stuff for a wide variety of stripped threads. I think nearly everyone could use this in their tool box. Available from better auto parts stores or through on-line vendors like Amazon...

Locktite PC3967 Stripped Thread Repair . formally known as Locktite Form A Thread - Stripped Thread Repair I remember its kind of pricey, but this is a must have for my shop !!

Good Luck !! C2K

[knuckgush]

I would consider filling the hole with hi-temperature silver solder and then drill and tap it to the original size. There really isn’t any stress on the threads for holding a zerk.
But someone else may have a better solution.

Hi. I’m thinking that the pressure is pretty intense when a grease gun is applied and doing its job. That’s when I was alerted the threads wouldn't hold when I squeezed the pump handle and the zerk fitting popped right off.
Is silver solder something special, or just plain solder? Not sure of the terminology…

[Rubone]

Was the right zerk in the hole? That would be the first thing to check. And silver solder is not plain solder, it is much higher strength.

[T. Cotten]

Is peening a lost art, Folks?

Shame they named a hammer after it.

....Cotten

[knuckgush]

Is peening a lost art, Folks?

Shame they named a hammer after it.

....Cotten

I ain’t no peener Cotton. I’d have to take a course!

Your making me think though.

[knuckgush]

I've used a Loctite product for applications that are far more demanding than what you require for your specific needs. I've used this stuff for a wide variety of stripped threads. I think nearly everyone could use this in their tool box. Available from better auto parts stores or through on-line vendors like Amazon...

Locktite PC3967 Stripped Thread Repair . formally known as Locktite Form A Thread - Stripped Thread Repair I remember its kind of pricey, but this is a must have for my shop !!

Good Luck !! C2K

Thanks for that! I’m going to check it out! Thank you.

[knuckgush]

Was the right zerk in the hole? That would be the first thing to check. And silver solder is not plain solder, it is much higher strength.

Yes, it was the correct zerk fitting. The other three fit fine, and they all came from the same package from a reputable dealer.

[Eric]

look at www.zerksplus.com

[T. Cotten]

No wonder my search engine is worthless, Folks!

When I went to school,

They were zirques.

....Cotten
PS: Parkerizing any kind of solder is a real trick.

[Kozy]

PS: Parkerizing any kind of solder is a real trick.[/QUOTE]

Weld, drill and tap?

[T. Cotten]

Weld, drill and tap?

I'd try hitting it with a hammer first, Kozy!

(Artfully, of course.)

This never gets old:
FARSIDE.jpg

Whatcha got to lose?

....Cotten
PS: Tried to tap a weld lately?