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I used Heli-Coil to repair an exhaust manifold stud on a cast iron Miata block. It worked well and was tolerant of my inexperience.
I need to repair an ABS sensor mount in a Miata steel spindle, so I planned to get an appropriate sized insert. Pep Boys has a Heli-Coil knock off, which would work fine in this steel application, however, I would like something that would work in aluminum and magnesium like the T4 and T1 engines. I would also like to get a set of multiple sizes (hopefully with tools) so that I am set for future repairs.

• Time-Sert is supposed to be good (expensive too!), but I think that it locks itself in place and will ruin the threads should it ever be removed. Their sets come with tools including counter sinking.
• RE-NU uses a bit of nylon to minimize movement. I did not see any tools.
• There is another, the name of which escapes me, that is turned with a flat screwdriver and the surrounding metal can be hammered into the screwdriver notch to lock it.

What is the best way to go? Are the tools sold separately or standard tapping tools?

I do already have some metric taps which would work with inserts that use the same pitches I have. But I would still need something to counter sink.
A $400 Time-Sert metric set is at the upper end of my price range.

Thanks

To tell the sad truth, you need both Helicoil and Timeserts, because sometimes there just isn't enough meat for the solid insert.

Most folks only ever need 2 or 3 sizes.
(spark plugs are a special case, any insert is arguably a somewhat dubious fix)

I have been thinking about this overnight as it has been a long time since I had to deal with the professionally (memory is getting terrible). I have to agree with Pile, there is not one good-for-everything answer to this. Helicoils, which I have and have used, are good for some things/situations but not others nor would I even want to use them as temp fixes for some things or materials. The same for other types of threaded inserts. Sometimes in the heat of battle we forget and do things we later ask: "why did I do that"?

Lee

Thanks, guys. I guess I will get the Korean Heli-Coil knock off from Pewp Boys for this steel application.