Topic: Caliper bleeder threads

[Tim2005]

Hi all, has anyone successfully repaired any caliper threads with helicoils, particularly bleeder threads but also the brake line ones? I've several old calipers that would be worth repairing in other respects. These threads look straightforward enough except that each has a sealing surface at the base- did you get them leak-tight after helicoiling?

[bryanj]

For the bleeder get a napa bleeder repair kit and tap oversize, not sure i would trust a helicoiled pipe joint

[bryanj]

The napa kit for the bleeder comes complete with an insert that has a new bleeder seat and bleeder to fit, i have done a few where the bleeder has been sheared off, no longer looks standard but works fine

[grcamna2]

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[bryanj]

Napa up bf 117 from memory you drill and tap 1/8 bspt(pipe taper) thread to screw insert in

[Tim2005]

Thanks, the napa kits looks a good idea, though I've yet to spot a UK supplier. Even better, as they rely on an oversize drilling for the bleeder hole,  I could try helicoiling one first & if that doesn't work could then go down the napa route.

[bryanj]

There isnt a uk supplier but i imported a few kits , come join us on the uk forum and send me a pm

[Tim2005]

Cheers Bryan, though I've found them from a Harley supplier. I'm still interested to try helicoiling first, or hear from anyone who has tried that before.

[bryanj]

I have tried it and it didnt work well, like i said come onto the uk forum and pm me, i have the drill and tap for the insert plus a few kits, done a few for members, just cost post both ways.

[Don R]

 Remember, the taper at the bottom makes the seal, if you disturb it with a drill or tap having good threads might not help.  I guess I've been lucky with mine so far.

[Kenzo1979]

I’ve used a repair bleeder that I picked up from pep boys when I originally did this years ago to my 500.  Probably the same as the NAPA one.  Worked fine and the part is two pieces, a threaded sleeve piece that has its own tapered bottom and a threaded bleeder screw to go into the first piece.  The one I got was standard US thread however; I believe the bleeder screw itself was 1/4” thread.  I have since purchased a new caliper.  You can easily buy just that part separately without the piston, other pad retainer, etc.  fairly cheap.

[Tim2005]

Remember, the taper at the bottom makes the seal, if you disturb it with a drill or tap having good threads might not help.  I guess I've been lucky with mine so far.

Yes that's it - mustn't drill too far or it's all over. Glad to hear yours have worked, I'll get an M7 helicoil kit and give it a try. I think I've a couple of otherwise scrap ones somewhere to practice on too.