Help! stripped control arm mounting point

[crazycommie]

I was being a little careless and I managed to strip the threads on the control arm mount. From what I read I have to cut out the old mounting point and weld in a new one, but that seems like it will be very difficult to line up properly and I may run into alignment issues. Is there any way around this, has anyone successfully done it another way?

I've never helicoiled a part and have heard that may work but the problem is I can't really see the the threads and don't want to make it worse than it already is.

[WackyWabbitRacer]

You don't remove the existing lower suspension mount. Instead the outer skin (ie panel) is pried back to access the captive nut.

Either borrow or buy a Bentley service manual. The repair procedure is in the Body & Interior section.

Cheers, WWR.

[Big CADDY]

I just used a cut off wheel and made two or three little cuts and folded back the area. replaced the nut and welded the hold back shut. It's pretty simple if you have the tools.

THe bentley explains it .

I'd replace the nut and hold the nut in place with the bold and zap it a few times with the welder.

also, never tap hard when you try to get those bolts in because it can break that nut loose.

[crazycommie]

ok, great I have a bentley so I will look at the procedure I never really looked for it there, I will be more careful this time

[deathhare.]

Use a torque wrench.

[2502]

This is probably a dumb question, but would it be ok to get to the captive nut by drilling a 34 mm hole right next to it? The surrounding area seems pretty stout & I have scirocco brace for it, but I wasn't too sure if it would hold up.

[WackyWabbitRacer]

That approach may work providing the hole gives enough access room to remove the old captive nut and weld a new nut.

The new nut needs to be welded securely several places around its perimeter.

Good luck, WWR.

[2502]

Thanks alot for the input, I really appreciate it.