Commentary not aimed at anyone;
One other thing, Don't strip threads. There is no excuse. When restoring, refurbishing or just repairing, you must inspect, size, clean and chase all internal and external threads. This is a big part of the work that needs to be done. I do it all the time. I have taps already loaded with 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16. I either sandblast original hardware or wire wheel it clean and new and then chase if it won't past a test. Wire wheel is preferred. I have no fingerprints left.
Everything goes together nicely with no hang ups. This part of mechanic work is often over looked....and again, for the beginner, don't strip threads. STOP if threads don't feel easy to tighten. Always thread hardware on by hand until well engaged. Never start a bolt or nut with a tool.
New hardware must be tested. Sometimes the tolerance/quality on the plating of Chinese hardware will not thread easily into original SAE threads. I have had to chase new hardware many times. That's why I save, tag and reuse 95% of the old hardware.
Note 1: You must be extremely careful when chasing captive/captive floating/no access hardware. Use liquid wrench, oil, etc. and slowly turn tap or die 1/2 turn and back off, then 1/2 more and etc. Be SURE you know the size and pitch. Obviously, if you break it loose from the weld or cage, you are the one who is screwed. Starting and using a tap or die, to chase threads, also needs special care. Don't strip threads that way either.
Note 2: Some of you guys tend to forget, everything is simple if you are already good at it. A novice or trainee needs to have the best chance for success. Then when they get "good at it" they can develop quicker methods. If they ever even do it again. Not speaking about Matttttttttt's abilities, just a general comment. If a person asks this kind of question, they could be a novice. Grigg is a Machinist/Fabricator, Kevin and I are Mechanical Engineers. We all love to work on old trucks and drive them. We need to help others and learn from others. We need to keep in mind not all are as experienced as we may be. I realize there are several different ways to accomplish a task. I learn on here everyday. I just give my opinion. The best way to get answers is to get various opinions, so a person can decide what is the best approach to do something. We are very good at that on Stovebolt and have done that for this member. Well done. I learn more by helping than the poster does.
