thread restorer question

[PoorOwner]

I have the craftsman kit which is similar to the bluepoint etc.
Anyway I noticed if I put a good bolt or bad bolt it always need a bit of force to run it through, ratchet required. If I use a die from a tap and die kit it doesnt do this. I used oil.

So my question is does the restorer actually cut the bolt slightly smaller?

 

[scissorman]

A tap will cut threads whereas a restorer reconditions the existing threads by forming the threads back into shape. The short answer to your question is NO, a restorer will not cut the bolt smaller.

 

[dodge610]

Restorer should just clean up and straighten the thread. Tap and die should cut new thread. I do not think the restorer does much cutting.

 

[PoorOwner]

I am very puzzled with it then, when doesnt the bolt thread in without resistance. I am sure that is the thread. even bought a new die to make sure.

I do see a few speckles of metal if I run it through

 

[dodge610]

I am very puzzled with it then, when doesnt the bolt thread in without resistance. I am sure that is the thread. even bought a new die to make sure.

I do see a few speckles of metal if I run it through

When do you see the metal with the die or restorer

 

[Fcvapor05]

I am very puzzled with it then, when doesnt the bolt thread in without resistance. I am sure that is the thread. even bought a new die to make sure.

I do see a few speckles of metal if I run it through

The short answer is that most thread restorers are made to form to the tightest end of the tolerance window for a given fastener size, so that one restorer is good for all fasteners of that class.

For example, a 1/2-13 restorer will form the threads to 3A (or 3B). If you run it down or through a 3A/3B fastener, you will get a little resistance, but not a ton because the fastener is made to the same tight tolerance as the restorer. If you run the same restorer down a 1A/1B fastener, you'll likely get a lot of resistance because the restorer is made to 3A/3B but the fastner has much looser tolerances.

Most hardware store bolts aren't going to be 3A/3B, so most of the time it's going to take some effort to run the restorer down.

 

[Finky198]

As said above this is for taps and dies but it's a great visual