Whipple mid-plate problem.....any ideas?

[Hilander]

Looking for some ideas.

I upgraded to a 01-style lower intake manifold from my 2000 type.
In doing so I traded my 2000 style Whipple mid-plate for a 2001 type.

When trying to fit the intercooler to the billet mid-plate it turns out 10 of the 11 threaded holes were stripped or were over tightened at some point before I got it. The Whipple manual states 96 inch pounds, the bolts started to spin at my first sequence of 40 inch pounds.

Any ideas on a fix, I am not keen on tapping the holes, as the next size up bolt is an M6, much bigger than the M5 that is there now. I doubt it would even fit.

 

[Lightning Steve]

Have not seen the parts your talking about but, you could heli-coil it (if possible) or re-tap, it does not have to be the next metric size up, what about a standard thread the next size up from the M5. Just an idea.

 

[Boston Blackie]

Heli-coil is the way to go.

 

[Hilander]

Thanks guys, so heli coil hu.

So as the bolt is a M5 what size coil? Also is that something that Napa might have?

Thanks

 

[Kryo-Genik]

So as the bolt is a M5 what size coil? Also is that something that Napa might have?

Thanks

Where is Mr. ChrisNelson when you need to ask an important question?

 

[Fade 2 Black]

Helicoil would be the way to go as far as repairing the existing size hole and keep in mind you may need to use two inserts per hole if the threaded depth is long enough.

It may also be possible to replace the metric bolts with a standard thread fastener of equal length which would allow a redrill and retap.

 

[wydopnthrtl]

I've looked the 01+ mid-plate over in extreme depth for the new RT nitrous design. And looking at my machinerys hand book..

Honestly I would not hesitate to just drill the intercooler holes to 6.5mm,
drill the mid-plate to 4.75mm (or a #10 drill)
Then tap the mid plate with a M6x1

You'll be fine this way. Just don't go deeper than stock.

Rich

 

[Thunder Bolt]

I agree with Rich. Drilling and Re-tapping the holes will be a breeze. I'm willing to
bet they used loctite on those screws. The threads were probably damaged/
distorted when they were removed.

 

[RIDE THE]

I would agree with Ron and Rich. I had to do this on one of the holes on my midplate two days ago. I probably should have just done them all.