[Healeys] Tapping SUs for air filters.

[Bob Spidell]

I've not tried this, but my first thought is that the aluminium bodies 
of the SUs would be too soft; eventually, you might strip the threads 
(esp. if trying to get a good seal with the filter). Why not do what 
you're likely to end up doing anyway: installing thread inserts 
(Helicoil or similar).  I think 5/16" bolts would be sufficient.

Bob

On 11/22/2018 6:15 AM, simon.lachlan at alexarevel.plus.com wrote:
>
> I’ll be removing my carbs soon in order to achieve clearance for 
> raising (the front of) the engine. (Harmonic balancer installation).
>
> So, it struck me that I may give my 3 HD6s another go. Swap them with 
> the current setup.
>
> Thinking it through and looking at the big box of bits, I recalled 
> what a pain it is to get the nuts and two washers onto the bolts that 
> hold on the air filters. I have French manufactured K&N lookalikes. 
> The bolt starts inside the filter, goes through the carb and gets two 
> washers and a nut. Very awkward to deal with those nuts and washers. PITA.
>
> I thought that I might put in helicoils then I thought “Why not tap 
> the holes?”
>
> The holes on my HD6s are 11/32” or 8.8mm.
>
> I am no engineer but it seems to me, from looking at tables on Google, 
> that I could use a 25/64” drill bit and tap them out to 7/16”. I have 
> both the drill and the tap but would like some expertise applied to 
> the issue before I start drilling.
>
> Any input would be much appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Simon
>
>
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