Tim 97 #1 Posted June 12, 2012 plug must have got loose. now thread is stripped. anybody know where I can get a helicoil kit and anybody know the thread it is a 12 hp kohler k series engine, is this the best option? thanks Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
squonk 42,931 #2 Posted June 12, 2012 Helicoil makes a kit just for plugs. They are usually 14 mm. It comes with 3 different inserts to match your plug reach. The kit isn't cheap but it comes with inserts and a tool to lock them into the head so it won't come out. You can get it at any NAPA Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,023 #3 Posted June 12, 2012 I purchased a kit off eBay for about $12.00. Included everything that you need to fix that head. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pollack Pete 2,273 #4 Posted June 12, 2012 I'd look for a good used head,either from one of the vendors here or from Fleabay.Personally,I've never had much luck with Helicoil.Especially on a spark plug hole.When you unscrew the spark plug,the insert usually comes out with it.Good luck. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Roanoker494 0 #5 Posted June 12, 2012 Around here the local auto parts stores has the kits to make that repair, one of my local OPE dealers also stocks them. I have found that a good shot of red Loc-Tite helps keep those coils in place, make sure you let the Loc-Tite dry before installing the plug or you will end up with a plug that can not be removed......... Also a good idea to remove the head because you don't want the metal shavings inside the engine. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skrusins 128 #6 Posted June 12, 2012 I would check local auto part stores that have a machine shop. Take the head to them and they could install a helicoil for you without any hassles. Just my opinion. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Tim 97 #7 Posted June 12, 2012 gonna go on classified and inquire for another one it looks like the cost of the kit is about the same as buying another one Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kelly 1,032 #8 Posted June 12, 2012 PM sent on a good head. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Coadster32 793 #9 Posted June 13, 2012 A good used head is a good alternative to helicoiling out the hole. If you get it from Kelly, you should have no worries. IMO...I would helicoil it, (machinist here). Loc-tite makes much better stuff than just red or blue thread locker. We use bearing retaining compound, and beleive me, it aint a gonna come out. After the price for the helicoil kit, you can fix another 5 heads as well. Money in the bank, and another tool in the box. :twocents-02cents: 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
buckrancher 2,694 #10 Posted June 13, 2012 I think you can get a heicoil kit at a fastenal store if you have one near you Brian Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BOWTIE 226 #11 Posted June 13, 2012 HELLO, I HAVE ALWAYS GONE WITH A INSERT DESIGN. ONCE IT IS IN PLACE THIER ARE FOUR ANCHOR PINS TO SECURE IT. BOWTIE IN OHIO Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Horse'n Around 22 #12 Posted June 13, 2012 A good used head is a good alternative to helicoiling out the hole. If you get it from Kelly, you should have no worries. IMO...I would helicoil it, (machinist here). Loc-tite makes much better stuff than just red or blue thread locker. We use bearing retaining compound, and beleive me, it aint a gonna come out. After the price for the helicoil kit, you can fix another 5 heads as well. Money in the bank, and another tool in the box. Chris,is the green loc-tite the compound your referring to? From what Ive read its really strong stuff . John Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Coadster32 793 #13 Posted June 13, 2012 It'll say bearing retaining compound on it. I forget the number 363 or something like that. They make one for a slid fit, and one for a press fit. Use the press fit. After tapping get it clean, and dry. Use the loc-tite, and put in the helicoil. You don't really need that much. Let it dry!!! (You'll most likely never get the plug out ever again if you don't). Yeah...it's that good. No problem with heat as well. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SousaKerry 502 #14 Posted June 13, 2012 Helicoils are junk go with a keensert or just buy a new head they are cheap and plentiful Share this post Link to post Share on other sites