Hudson lug bolts

Browniepetersen

I expect that the only way to repair a stripped brake drum is to pull the drum, have the stripped hole drilled and tap a larger threaded bolt?  Has anyone ever developed a self threading replacement like they have on oil pans?

DavidC

Sounds like a slippery slope if you tap bigger.  If you tap just the one, the weight of the larger lug bolt will cause an imbalance.  If you tap one or more you now have to drill out the wheel lug holes to accept, and this may alter the way the bolts seat. 

If there is enough meat on the drum to accept one, a machine shop can install a nutsert.  Probably the best fix but I am open to other ideas.  May be cheaper to get a used drum from a club member.

Dave

Frankvintagefullflowcom

IMO, the miniscule difference in weight, especially in that close to the hub, would be undetectable, and offsettable by balancing if need be.
However, my first choice would be a Helicoil to restore the threads. I have one that I need to do the next time I have that drum removed. Cheap, effective, notabigdeal, but should be done with the drum/hub removed and in a drill press to maintain correct perpendicularity to the flange face.
No change in mass......no change in balance.
Frank

lostmind

I agree with Frank. You can buy the kit at any NAPA store

Frankvintagefullflowcom

My guess is that the usual NAPA (or most others) will not have a 1/2-20 kit on hand but can certainly get them.
F