I just want to buy the taps/dies I will need for my BJ74.
Which metric sizes/pitch are most used on Cruisers?
Which metric sizes/pitch are most used on Cruisers?
which taps and dies?
- Thread starter jblueridge
- Start date
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M6x1.00, m8x1.25, m10x1.5, m10x1.25, m12x1.75, m12x1.5, m12x1.25 are the ones I have, if I'm remembering correctly.
M6, m8, m10, and m12 thread sizes correspond to 10, 12, 14, and 17mm head size in JIS. The only ones that I use regularly are the m6x1.00 and m8x1.25
M6, m8, m10, and m12 thread sizes correspond to 10, 12, 14, and 17mm head size in JIS. The only ones that I use regularly are the m6x1.00 and m8x1.25
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- Thread starter
- #3
Sears selling Craftsman (made in China) metric 6 die set very cheap; no box.
Metric 14 piece tap set was more at $35 or $38; plastic container.
Still lacking the M12x1.25 tap and die.
Metric 14 piece tap set was more at $35 or $38; plastic container.
Still lacking the M12x1.25 tap and die.
I have two master sets of taps and dies - one Matco and the other from Snap-On . The Matco set is far superior for sure . Honestly , if just for working on a Cruiser I'd just get individuals in the sizes listed above and avoid the cheap Chinese ones out there . Use a good quality name , just search some of the machinist forums for their recommendations .
Sarge
Sarge
- Thread starter
- #5
I had checked on McMaster-Carr and the prices for the few taps/dies I want was very high.
Few real-life sources around here.
I may get the size I still need from Mcmaster.
Few real-life sources around here.
I may get the size I still need from Mcmaster.
MSC Industrial Supply is another good internet source for stuff like that. Or Enco for a more "cut rate" supplier.
Just fyi - the generic imported taps from Fastenal in the plastic rectangle snap-lid packaging are actually quite good - in both 6&8mm I use the 2-flute design since they have much less chance of cross threading in both new and existing holes . They seem to last quite well and haven't had on brittle enough to break yet - so evidently some decent 8620 or similar tool steel .
They might be able to order the 11 & 12 x 1.2
They might be able to order the 11 & 12 x 1.2
Arrgh , new laptop .
The 11 & 12 x 1.25 mm taps/dies might be available from Fastenal if you order them .
Sarge
The 11 & 12 x 1.25 mm taps/dies might be available from Fastenal if you order them .
Sarge
Cheap (usually Chinese) taps break very easily and are not worth the frustration. Taps and dies are one of those things where you get what you pay for, and you want the highest quality that you can afford. Worth saving up for IMO.
Round or hex dies?
I like the hex ones. You can use a wrench on them when chasing threads in tight spaces.
Also, I have one of these for tapping out in the field. It's pretty handy:
Big Gator Tools MTG500NP V Style Tap Guide - Metric, 9 Holes - Tap And Die Sets - Amazon.com
Also, I have one of these for tapping out in the field. It's pretty handy:
Big Gator Tools MTG500NP V Style Tap Guide - Metric, 9 Holes - Tap And Die Sets - Amazon.com
FWIW Grainger has got some pretty great deals on taps WIDIA, GUHRING to name a few I grabbed a bunch of them since some where close to 90% off list
Machine Cutting Tools - Machining - Grainger Industrial Supply
Machine Cutting Tools - Machining - Grainger Industrial Supply
I was able to get a decent 39-piece Tekton set from Amazon for $30 prime shipped. For the top end rebuild it has done great. Then spent another $25 for the specific FJ60 head bolt (M13x1.75) tap from DrillsandCutters.com that was awesome as well. Don't know if they would be considered high quality like the BOSCH on the grainger site but they have done me well so far for chasing a number of threads as well as a couple fixed bolts.
Here is a dumb question, when in a tight area that you cant get the T-Handle on the tap without something interfering what do you all do? Is there a ratchet extension/adapter out there or do you just use an appropriate combo or box wrench?
Here is a dumb question, when in a tight area that you cant get the T-Handle on the tap without something interfering what do you all do? Is there a ratchet extension/adapter out there or do you just use an appropriate combo or box wrench?
I usually just use a regular combo wrench. Ratchets are obnoxious when you want to turn it back to clean the burr.
Lisle and other brands make a set of standard tap sockets - they have an internal square drive and rubber insert to hold the tap , I use them far more than the t-handles .
Amazon.com: Lisle LI70500 Tap Socket Set: Automotive
Sarge
Amazon.com: Lisle LI70500 Tap Socket Set: Automotive
Sarge
Thanks Sarge... that seems to be what I was looking for. Will eventually pick up as I am sure I will need it at some point. Just did the galley plug on my 60 since the head was off to get worked on and the angle was just right that I couldn't use the t-handle. Ended up using a combo of a combo wrench and a small 12pt socket that fit the end and ratchet.
Most of the parts store chains actually stock those socket sets - I know O-Reilly's and Car Quest here does anyway .
Sarge
Sarge
Next time I go I will have to look. Hoping I won't have to retap anything soon here.