Thread Inserts

About Thread Inserts

Thread inserts are precision-engineered fastening solutions designed to repair damaged threads or reinforce threaded holes in metal, aluminium, and other materials. Also known as helicoil inserts or thread repair inserts, these components provide a permanent fix for stripped or worn threads, restoring original strength and allowing proper torque application. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of thread inserts from leading manufacturers including Recoil, Sealey, and Draper, suitable for both professional workshop environments and demanding trade applications.

Available in multiple thread standards including Metric, UNC, BSW, BSF, and NPT configurations, thread inserts at MyToolShed.co.uk cater to diverse repair requirements. Specialist inserts for brake callipers, spark plugs, and glow plugs offer targeted solutions for automotive technicians, whilst standard threaded inserts with hex flanges provide robust fixing points for general engineering and manufacturing applications.

Applications

Thread inserts are essential tools for professionals across numerous trades and industries:

• Automotive mechanics – repairing damaged spark plug, glow plug, and brake calliper threads
• Engineers and machine shops – restoring threads in precision components and machinery
• Aircraft maintenance technicians – meeting stringent aerospace thread repair standards
• Plant maintenance engineers – fixing stripped threads in industrial equipment and production machinery
• Marine engineers – repairing threads in boat engines and marine equipment exposed to corrosion
• General tradespeople – reinforcing threaded holes in aluminium and soft metals
• Manufacturing – creating stronger threaded connections in production assemblies

Choosing The Right Thread Inserts

Selecting appropriate thread inserts requires careful consideration of several key factors:

Thread type and size: Identify whether you require Metric, UNC (Unified National Coarse), BSW (British Standard Whitworth), BSF (British Standard Fine), or NPT (National Pipe Thread) inserts. Accurate measurement of the existing or required thread size is essential for proper fitment.

Application-specific inserts: For automotive repairs, choose specialist inserts designed for spark plugs, glow plugs, or brake callipers rather than standard inserts. These are engineered to withstand specific temperature and stress conditions.

Material compatibility: Ensure the insert material suits your base material – stainless steel inserts work well in aluminium and cast iron, providing superior strength and corrosion resistance.

Insert style: Standard coiled wire inserts suit most applications, whilst solid inserts with hex flanges (like Sealey's full hex flange variants) provide additional grip and are ideal for high-vibration environments.

Kit versus refill packs: First-time users should consider complete kits including installation tools, whilst experienced professionals may prefer refill packs available at MyToolShed.co.uk for restocking frequently-used sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can thread inserts be removed and reused?
Standard coiled thread inserts are designed for permanent installation and shouldn't be removed once installed. However, if removal is necessary using a specialised extraction tool, the insert is typically damaged in the process and should be replaced with a new one.

Are thread inserts stronger than the original threads?
Yes, properly installed thread inserts often provide stronger threads than the original material, particularly in soft metals like aluminium. The hardened steel construction distributes load more evenly and resists stripping under high torque applications.

What size hole do I need to drill for a thread insert?
The drill size depends on the thread insert specifications – each manufacturer provides drilling and tapping charts with their products. Generally, you'll drill out the damaged thread, tap to the specified size, then install the insert which compresses to the original thread dimension.