How to fix striped trans cross member bolts - Third Generation F-Body Message Boards

Tuttlet · 02-15-2008, 10:15 AM

I have 2 bolts that are stripped out on the trans cross member brace. they are both on same side. These are the bolts that have a nut welded up in the frame so this is not an easie fix. Please help with out with any tips on the best way to do this before my trans falls out.

scorchmaster · 02-15-2008, 11:19 AM

I delt with this problem a while ago for my car. What I did was to drill out the stripped hole and retap it. I did it in my driveway, so it's doable anywhere. I got some huge grade 8 bolts and use those to secure the crossmember. Never have had that problem again. Be sure to use the correct size drill bit, tap and bolts, look it up online if you dont know what matches.

Sonix · 02-15-2008, 12:52 PM

You might be able to go up to 7/16" bolts. I don't think there's meat left for a 3/8" coarse. Mine didn't at least.
I drilled it out then dropped a bolt in from the top and used nuts underneath. It works ok.

I now took some 1/8" plate, drilled holes in them, and welded 3/8"-16 nuts onto it. I'm going to cut a square hole and weld the plate in place of the existing hole.

rjmcgee · 02-15-2008, 01:11 PM

When I did my new crossmember I used all 6 existing holes. Some of the originals were getting pretty worn and the other two not used from the factory weren't tapped. 7/16-20 works great. Run the correct sized drill for the 7/16 tap will just cut out the old worn threads. Mine has been great for about 3 years now.

Tuttlet · 02-15-2008, 03:27 PM

Thanks for the help guys. Any pics using 6 bolt holes?