shifter stabilizer bar

[Bank of SHO]

When reinstalling the shifter, the bolt for the stabilizer bar just spun. It never tightened very much at all. I didn't over torque it, as it never did get very tight. This is odd because there was no problem the first time, and a torque wrench was used both times. The settings were double-checked.

What are the options for repairing the threads? I dread drilling in the tranny case. I've never used a heli-coil either.

It seems to shift okay now, but I fgure it needs to be fixed. The bolt won't pull out, but it does spin with a wrench on it.

 

[sdpatt]

A Heli-Coil type thread repair will result in a thread boss much stronger than the original. Do not fear this method. You may also want to check out the thread in the Performance topic about the shifter reinforcement that has been created.

 

[Bank of SHO]

Thanks Scott. I will probably buy the shifter reinforcement when it becomes available.

Heli-coils are completely foreign to me. Can someone tell me where they are sold? What size is needed? What tools are needed? How is it installed?

Please don't tell me the tranny has to be dropped again.

 

[Bank of SHO]

For future reference, the bolt size on my '93 is 12mmx1.75. I had to go to an industrial fastener store to find a Perma-Coil in this size/thread pitch. Other sizes can be found in automotive stores. Inserts can be purchased separately or as a kit (inserts, tap, insert installation tool). The package will tell you what drill bit size is needed and not included in the kit.

For the 12mmx1.75 bolt, the Perma-Coil brand required a 31/64" drill bit.

To install, measure the depth of the hole and mark the drill bit with tape so you don't drill too deep. Be very careful to drill straight. Use compressed air to blow out the shavings. I used a can of compressed air meant for dusting computers. Carefully use the tap to thread the hole. Once again use compressed air to blow out the shavings. Now thread the insert onto the installation tool and screw it into the newly tapped hole. Use a drift and hammer to break off the tang in the insert, and once again use the compressed air to blow out the piece you just broke off.

Better instructions along with pictures can be found by typing "How to install a Perma-Coil" in a search engine (dogpile.com, google, etc.).

 

[SHO_Driver]

Good info.

 

[masho95]

So I assume that you got it in and working again? How the new clutch and rebuild working out for you?

 

[Bank of SHO]

The shifter is solid once again. It was so before the hard shifting from the Fidanza dowls messed up the threads. There was a shimmy in the shifter before the threads were repaired. That's why I didn't drive it until now.

The clutch is light and looks promising. It will be hard to baby it during the break-in period. Shifting is a little notchy, but not bad. Sometimes it is difficult to shift into first at a stop, but it goes in fine if shifting while rolling to a stop.

I was also able to manually force the adjustment mechanism to 'click'. The clutch now engages almost half-way up the pedal travel. During the clutch service I somehow made the minor oil pan seal leak much worse. A rod bearing job is now being contemplated. This is the Year of the SHO for me. Ouch.

Thanks for all of the help masho95. thumb