Can't Find Tap & Die for Head Bolts

[MSGGrunt]

I'm about to replace my head gasket and head on my 1997 FZJ80, 4.5 and all the threads say to run a die over the head bolt and a bottom tap down into the block to clean-up the threads. Problem is I can't find either. I am told the thres size is 11mm x 1.25 thread pitch? Is this correct? I have tried all my local auto parts stores and Sears with not luck. Napa doesn't even have a listing for that size neither does Snap On. Where are you guys getting the right tap & die? The head will be here in a couple of days and I'm itching to get back into my 80 over my 62.

Dave Horn
Worcester, MA USA

 

[alia176]

search for an outfit called: Metric and Multistandard Corp (MMC). Also try Mcmastercarr.com. I happen to live close to a branch of MMC so I've picked up weird metric stuff in the past.

Ali

 

[Cube Dweller]

Try MSC. 800.645.7270. When I worked in machine shops they were our main go-to supplier. I still buy from them.

 

[Tools R Us]

That is a very rare size, are you sure it's not M11 x 1.5? For drills and taps most times you get much better quality and selection for your money from a machinist supply, try these;

http://www.jlindustrial.com/index.jsp

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRHM

http://www.rutlandtool.com/Welcome.html

 

[Lars]

I cant comment if that is the correct size but if it is you can get it here:

http://www1.mscdirect.com/CGI/NNSRIT?PARTPG=NNSRAR2&PMPXNO=1737072

 

[CRZRJames]

11mm is very unusual, and sounds small to me. I imagine it's a 12mmX1.25. If you have the bolts out, you should be able to measure it, or go to a local machine shop or bolt supply for them to measure it.

Metric and Multistandard is a great place to go, but spendy.

If you didn't have any trouble getting the bolts out, I can't imagine the threads need chasing. I've taken my F and 2F heads off multiple times and never needed to chase the threads.

 

[MSGGrunt]

Thanks Lars you saved me a small fortune. If you're ever in the MASS area I owe you a 6-pack of your favorite poison.

For those needing the same tap and die as I do to clean the headbolt threads and to chase the holes in the block here is what you need.

The company is MSC Direct (see the link on Lars posting)

The head bolts are 11mm with a 1.25 thread pitch. MSC has the tap and die which is a very odd size.

Tap Part # 04993051 M11 x 1.25 plug syle. $7.19 plus shipping
Die Part # 03933033 M11 x 1.25 round split adjustable die. $9.32 plus shipping.

MMC wanted $38.10 for the tap and $57.70 for the die....... OUCH!!!

 

[landtank]

MSGGrunt, I get all my metric tools and screws from Metric screw and tool in Wakefield MA. They have a web site and you can call them for requests. It's a small private company and real freindly.

 

[MSGGrunt]

Thanks Rick but I already placed the order and it will arrive from PA tomorrow Via UPS. I was getting worried as my head is on it's way back from Florida and I'm itching to get it back on and the vehicle running again. I know I probably could have wire brushed the threads on the bolts and just blown out the holes in the block but I don't like to skimp and my Cruiser. And I know if the thread are clean I will get a more accurate torque.

 

[MSGGrunt]

For those without a FSM, I know, I know, I will be getting one in the futre but that does me no good now.

The specs on the head bolts should be as follows:

You need to measure the thread diameter, not bolt shank, with verneer calipers.
The measurement should be made 25-30mm up the threaded portion of the bolt from the end of the bolt.
Thread diameter should be 10.85-11mm.
Minimum diameter is 10.6mm

Thanks Cruiser Dan

 

[Lars]

Thanks Lars you saved me a small fortune. If you're ever in the MASS area I owe you a 6-pack of your favorite poison.

No problem. Looks like sactocruiser had mentioned them first.