g741.org

My winch is FINALLY rebuilt and ready for mounting (almost). 3 of the bolt holes are threaded, but worn out - just enough so a bolt can (and will) wiggle out. Of course, all 3 holes are on the same side of the winch - where the winch-to-frame bracket is mounted.

I need a temporary fix for Memorial Day.

As a permanent fix, should I drill out & tap one size larger, or is Helicoil my best (safest & easiest) bet?

Heilcoil is a good option, drill and tap will also work. Without going outside to look at my truck, can you use longer bolts and back it up with nuts? this could be easy and cheap, 4 bolts & nuts!

Hmm, sorry bout that Jim. Thought I gave you the best 2 I had. I have one more here that is missing the weld nuts entirely.
Rick C

Thanks! It's not the frame extensions - they are great (-: The ones that are wasted are the holes in the winch housing. They are the ones that bolt the frame-to-winch brackets to the winch.

By the way - I used some 2-part epoxy and put the bolts in. Waited 24 hrs and presto! They don't fall out (yet!). This almost qualifies as the stupidest thing I've done with my truck, but not quite Fortunately for me, the local parade is about 1/2 mile and all down hill. It's a bit pathetic, but I was the only MV in the parade last year ( <--- see my avitar). We'll see about this year ...