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A recent customer reached out after installing a rebuilt engine from Jasper Engines in a Chevy. The issue? Stripped threads in the block for the starter bolts—specifically the 3/8-16 size. It's a frustrating spot to find yourself in, especially on a fresh rebuild, where the threads start about 1/2" down into a blind hole with roughly 15/16" of usable thread depth. The starter needs solid hold to avoid any movement or chomping on the flywheel during cranking. Hello, I'm Dennis Bandy, owner …

If you use Time-Sert kits frequently, you might be used to the insert screwing onto the driver almost all the way before meeting resistance. However, we’ve recently had reports from technicians—specifically those using the 11127 inserts—noticing the driver tightening up much earlier than they expected. Whether your driver threads in 90% of the way or only catches one or two threads before it gets tight, both scenarios are completely normal. Here is the technical breakdown of wh …

Hello, I'm Dennis Bandy, owner of Wise Auto Tools and a Master Automotive Technician with many years of hands-on experience in the shop. Over the years, I've fielded plenty of questions from mechanics and DIYers about materials for tools and repairs, and one that comes up often is whether stainless steel is basically carbon steel treated with some kind of rust-preventative coating. Let's set the record straight on this, and I'll explain why understanding the difference can make or break your thr …

A customer recently emailed us with a great question: “What percent of Kia vehicles would you say have the head bolt stripped?” It’s a common concern for owners of Kia and Hyundai vehicles with 3.3L, 3.5L, and 3.8L engines and it’s no surprise why. Stripped head bolt threads in aluminum engines are a known headache, especially for models using M11x1.5 head bolts (like those compatible with Fel-Pro ES72366 head bolt). Let me provide a little more info on the issue and I'll …

We recently received a great question from Michael, a DIYer facing a common problem of stripped threads for head bolts: repairing He's got two stripped holes for cylinder head bolts on a Pentastar 3.6L engine. His ask? “Would I be able to rent a Time-Sert 8313 repair kit or pay a usage fee? It’s a lot for me to afford for a one-time use (at least I pray I never have to do it again). Any help would be so greatly appreciated, thank you.” Michael’s situation is one many gear …