Tap and Die Question

[MichaelBikel]

What is the difference between a regular Die a re-threader and a thread restorer? Sometimes I cut bolts to length with my chop or hack saw then use a threader to clean them up, it works but is this a bad way to do so? Sometimes I just do it because I need specific length bolts...

 

[Fretters]

Thread restorers reform a thread by forcing it back into shape, whereas dies cut the thread. The former is literally a blunt die.

 

[Bdgjr215]

What is the difference between a regular Die a re-threader and a thread restorer? Sometimes I cut bolts to length with my chop or hack saw then use a threader to clean them up, it works but is this a bad way to do so? Sometimes I just do it because I need specific length bolts...

You can also take the bolt to the bench grinder and swirl the thread into itself
At the bottom . No need to chase threads on a new bolt

 

[Tim37]

I have found that If I run a but on a bolt before I cut it the take it off it will fix the threads on its way off.

 

[Shiftless]

I have found that If I run a but on a bolt before I cut it the take it off it will fix the threads on its way off.

That's the way to do it...but don't use your but...use a NUT!

 

[RogueFab]

Don't forget to keep a triangle file around for thread work too. One more good way to clean them up.

The nut trick is good too. I use it.

I have had great luck just cutting a chamfer on a lathe or with a grinder without clean up.

My old dies are "thread repairing"

 

[theoldwizard1]

Sometimes I cut bolts to length with my chop or hack saw ...

Start by threading a nut on first before you cut. After the cut clean the end up with a plain file. If the nut does not spin off easily, work the end more with the file.

 

[2oolhound]

I put a threading die on backwards, then make the cut, file the last thread starts down as they are fragile at the tips and then remove the die. If it's a permanent thing where I'm likely never to need to remove the nuts again I may not dress the end threads with a file, just remove the die and carefully install the nut.

 

[mikeceli]

"Thread Chasers" repair the thread without cutting the hole larger, bolt smaller.

I have a set and use them often! regular taps/dies take off valuable metal.