sure
XS650 Member
I’m in search of a good head with good plug threads for my rebuild.
Thanks
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Wanted - Head
- Thread starter sure
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If the only problem with your head is the plug hole threads I would just repair them.
Most auto parts houses have kits that let you tap the holes out oversized and install repair inserts in them. I would have to dig out the kit I used on the XS400 I did a couple years ago. I actually did mine without disassembling the engine just using a bit of grease on the reamer/tap to hold the chips.
Most auto parts houses have kits that let you tap the holes out oversized and install repair inserts in them. I would have to dig out the kit I used on the XS400 I did a couple years ago. I actually did mine without disassembling the engine just using a bit of grease on the reamer/tap to hold the chips.
sure
XS650 Member
Not interested in putting a helicoil in a motor that’s going to be completely rebuilt w big bore kit.
Would rather not have to worry about future failure.
Would rather not have to worry about future failure.
Then you will need a head and matched rocker cover since the are machined together as one unit from the factory.
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That's your choice but there are more than one style of thread repairs.
I can agree that despite having very good luck over the years with Helicoil thread inserts in an application that will see carbon deposits and maybe frequent changes of plugs on an engine that will at least at first possibly be going through a dialing in process they might not be the best.
However a solid insert like the timesert style might actually be a better choice than depending on a head that is probably over 35 years old. Hard to know how many times the plugs have been over tightened or run a little loose in those 35+ years.
All seriousness aside....I did get my first XS650 with a very poor thread on the RH spark plug and after a while...it blew out.
I had it helicoiled by a top-notch mechanic and it held great for the remainder of my time with that bike (and I put A LOT of miles on that oldie). He told me at the time that quite a few racers put helicoil inserts into key holes on their race engines even if the stock threads were OK - because the steel helicoils are actually stronger than stock.
I had it helicoiled by a top-notch mechanic and it held great for the remainder of my time with that bike (and I put A LOT of miles on that oldie). He told me at the time that quite a few racers put helicoil inserts into key holes on their race engines even if the stock threads were OK - because the steel helicoils are actually stronger than stock.
Like I said I have used the Helicoils in many places over the last 40 years could probably count on one hand the number that failed and most of them were do to some other problem. Even used a few for wheel studs on a Mack ten-wheeler, probably a DOT violation but they were off road trucks so that was not a major concern. Also have come across a few factory installed applications usually in to an aluminum casting.
Yup - in aluminium or some other soft material (copper/brass/wood etc.), if you cannot get a long thread engagement (usually want at least 2x diameter in aluminium) - putting a steel insert into the hole is often a good choice.
sure
XS650 Member
Ks, hmm haven’t even looked into finding a more solid style insert. That may be the route to take.
Thanks for the info guys.
Thanks for the info guys.
This is the kit I used on the XS400 head, it comes with three different length inserts and extra ones are sold separate.
https://www.amazon.com/OEMTOOLS-25647-Spark-Thread-Repair/dp/B000CMHL1C
I believe I got mine from AutoZone or some such parts place.
Geeezzz - for 25 clams - that looks ideal!
I did one of the plug holes on the XS400 I was working on and did it without even removing anything other than the one spark plug. That special tap threads in using what is left of the original threads and then cuts the new threads. Screw in new thread insert and then give it a couple good taps with the seating tool that flares out the top of the insert that has knurling on it to lock it in place.
Only slight down side is the kit only has one of each insert and I believe the replacement inserts come in kits with two of each length. Maybe there is another place that sells inserts of just one size so you don't end up with a bag full of unneeded inserts.
techboy2017
XS650 Member
Im in northeast indiana and I have what you need ,how much you looking to spend?
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