can some one tell me how a thread file works

[dreadhed]

I messed up the threads on a couple of 350x cranks. Just the first couple of threads, so I can not get the bolt started. Some one told me to use a thread file, but I have never use or heard of one before. I appericate any help. Here is a link to what he told me to use. http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/tools.asp?tool=all&Group_ID=1149&store=snapon-store

[Bryan Raffa]

yes thats a thred file each side is a diffrent pitch, make shure you get the one with the pitch you need. use it just like a file and the teeth take off the curled over part then run a die down it.

[Bryan Raffa]

no its for a male end like the end of a crank or axel

I use them alot for cleaning up badly peend threds so you can get the die started right..

[Bryan Raffa]

they been around for a long time..LOL

[dreadhed]

Oh I thougt it was for female threads too. So it will not work on female threads? The threads I am working on are female it is what the flywheel bolt goes in. If I use a tap how do I make sure I get it started right. I don't want to double cross the treads. I may still have to get a file if it will fix the front axle on my BR.

[Bryan Raffa]

sometimes if its not bad like a burr thats all you need, it works really well!
its a tool that you must have in the shop.

[dreadhed]

Just for male threads though? I just want to make sure I get what it is for now. I appericate you help Bryan. Any ideas on the best way to repair female threads. I was trying to use a helicoil but I may have to.

[Bryan Raffa]

yes you will need to tap that this tool wont work on that,whoever must of thought you were talking about the male

[dreadhed]

Thanks again.

[Bryan Raffa]

start it as straight and level as you can they will usally follow the easeyst path!

[dreadhed]

Cool I will give it a shot tomorrow if I get time. If all else fails helicoil here I come.

[smokinwrench]

Cool I will give it a shot tomorrow if I get time. If all else fails helicoil here I come.

helicoils are for internal threads only unless I have never seen or heard of external heicoils

thread files are easy to use

[dreadhed]

Ya I know. That is what I am fixing female/internal threads. It is where the flywheel bolt goes into the crank. Although if I rember right I have heard of some sort of helicole for male threads, but I was wrong once & it may happen again. lol