Timeserts are superior, they are a solid insert instead of spiral coil of threads.

Given the application, I would go Timesert with a liberal application of green Loctite.

 

I found something interesting when I contacted Timesert about what kit I should buy. Apparently if it is a blind hole, Timeserts need about 6mm of relief angle length in order to get a completely tapped thread (they mention it in their FAQ too). So for a 15mm depth, they actually recommended that I use their 9.4mm inserts that come by default in their kits. It surprised me, but I'm glad they let me know.

 

I believe you can insert multiple heli-coils if you need more depth... there should be instructions on that somewhere. BUT Timesert is more durable in the long run. Also more expensive.

On the other hand, for the Toyota 2.4l engines that have messed up the cylinder head bolts (common problem to those engines), the heli-coils are a tried and proven method. So long as they're installed carefully, they hold no problem. With that in mind, I have no reason to doubt heli-coil would work just fine for the cam retainer bolts.

In something important, personally I'd go with the timesert - and I did get the timesert kit for the oil drain bolt in one of my other cars, though haven't used it yet as the current plug is on it's last leg but still holding. Just for my piece of mind.

 

I've used both with success. When I worked in the tool room for a plastics company, we'd us a Helicoil in striped out thread. Keep in mind that these bolts were removed often as a process in setting up the machines. On occasion, the Helicoil would get pulled out. If the threads were still intact, we'd install another coil. If the threads were gone (ie hole too big), we'd go for a solid insert.

Helicoils are stronger than the original threads that are made in Aluminum. They are often called out on prints for new parts.

If you stripped out the original threads, I'd strongly suggest taking a step back and figure out why it happened. Drilling, threading, and installing a Helicoil isn't really that difficult, however, it's a bit more complicated than installing bolts. The hole needs to be drilled out with the bit held vertical as well as the tap. Yes, a tap can be ran in at a non perpendicular angle to the surface.

I'm not trying to slam you here, just trying to show the facts.

 

I've done a couple timesert repairs now, and I can highly recommend them. The kit comes with all the bits needed and 5 timesert inserts. It's also possible to buy different length inserts. Keep in mind if you are repairing threads in a blind hole, you'll need at least 6mm clearance, so that the threads can fully form on the insert (i.e. 15mm depth blind hole should use 9mm insert).

This T-handle tap wrench from Harbor Freight was really useful for tapping and using the driver to insert the inserts.

http://www.harborfreight.com/t-handle-tap-ratchet-wrench-97633.html

You might also consider getting the correct size timesert tap guide (do a search on Amazon or EBay). It's used to make sure that you tap perpendicular to the surface. Optional, but I found it useful as well.

 

A good video about Time Sert vs Heli Coil

http://youtu.be/RptM-jCzLtQ


Sent from AutoGuide.com Free App

 

@maestro123 , any progress on this?

 

Yup, I've repaired the holes that I've needed to repair. I ended up going with the timesert kit. Spent about $100 total for everything I needed.