hey guys I have done a lot of searching for ways to fix my stripped lug bolt.

So I saw that the gsl-se model has studs already correct?

I have an 85 GSL 4 wheel disc and wanted to know if it would be easier for me to just put gsl-se axles in or to just get mine redrilled at a machine shop. I'm really trying to find the most cost effective way. By the way I already tried a tap set and no luck.

 

why dont you just pull the brake rotor and tap it yourself? you can find taps fairly cheap and i feel that that would be the most cost effective way of going about it.

 

By the way I already tried a tap set and no luck.

 

You can also pull the axles and insert studs, then use nuts instead if lug bolts.

 

Would I just take them to a machine shop? Any idea what that would cost to do?

 

Yes.

You need to call the machine shop and ask them how must they charge.

 

If you have some metal experience, all one needs to do is drill the correct size hole, straight and centered, then pull/press the studs. It's relatively simple if you know what you're doing.

 

thanks guys. I will call around and see what the machine shops will charge, thats not something i feel comfortable about just doing myself. screwing something up on the engine it just may not run for a couple days. screwing something up on studs it may never be driveable again. lol

 

Heli-coil is the way to fix stripped lug bolt holes. It works - they are very strong. I have done one back in '98, and it is still holding well. The Heli-coil kit cost me about $70, and it included the tap drill, installation tool, and several Heli-coil inserts.

 

Replacing an axle is less ticklish than drilling and helicoiling. Near-zero failure chance.

More money, but less chance of boning Fido. Parts swapout is always easier than detailed repair - - it's like a corollary of Murphy's law or something.

That's what makes repair/refurb so much more fun than just swapping bits. When it's done, anyway.

 

Personally I'd just change the axle and be done with it, you can find used ones very cheap on here and any 84/85 Non-GSLSE axle will work, you just need to change the backing plate if its off a drum brake rear end...

 

yeah I may just do that for the time being. I think there is a guy local out here that has a gsl rear end, just waiting to get confirmation.