So I swapped my cam tensioner today and turns out the lower bolt didn't have many threads left and stripped out.  Right before my first real ride, of course.  Now she leaks oil out of it, which isn't fun.  Any ideas for a good fix?  Should I just take it to the shop to get re-tapped?

Thanks

you could re-tap it but is defenitely not for a first job in that field. you have to remove carbs, maybe someone with good hand and expierence manages to do it with a socket wrench from one side...not ideal

i would just try to seal it with something.
is the bolt long enough? measure it, maybe you have more tapped meat towards the end of the hole, did it crossthread?
i understand stripped the hole, it softer aluminum than the steel bolt..
you could also try one size wider

you dont have pressure there, only splasing from the chain, and the oil that rains from the valve head

use an impact tool to break free these bolts,less chance to strip both head and threading, cheapest with a sledgehammer works

Quote from: Armandorf on April 14, 2025, 06:33:31 PMyou could re-tap it but is defenitely not for a first job in that field. you have to remove carbs, maybe someone with good hand and expierence manages to do it with a socket wrench from one side...not ideal

i would just try to seal it with something.
is the bolt long enough? measure it, maybe you have more tapped meat towards the end of the hole, did it crossthread?
i understand stripped the hole, it softer aluminum than the steel bolt..
you could also try one size wider

you dont have pressure there, only splasing from the chain, and the oil that rains from the valve head

use an impact tool to break free these bolts,less chance to strip both head and threading, cheapest with a sledgehammer works

I'm gonna see if I can get it into the Suzuki dealer close by to re-tap it.  I have terrible luck resealing such things.

If you take it to a dealer or shop, they will likely install a Heli-coil insert, so you will continue to use the same size fastener.

It is pretty straightforward, you can buy Heli-coil kits that include the drill bit, tap and insert tool for your specific thread size. Someone may correct me but I think that screw is M6 or 6mm-(1mm pitch), so a very common size.

I have used them on stripped sparkplug holes and they are a lifesaver. Look on Amazon for kits and YouTube for demo videos.