Threaded Inserts?

[Steve Manning]

With recent discussions about threaded inserts, I figured I pass along some information to ponder. I'm sure this is not unknown to many of you, though some may find it interesting. The idea is using threaded inserts might not be the best option?

I've attached a couple of videos that will cover the basics of what I'm getting at.

Of course as with all things, there's no silver bullet to fix all problems. This alternative technique will not really work very well for small thread sizes, but it gives another option to use.

[JonMarsh]

Is this the part where I should pop in for "Team Rampa"?

One things I'll mention, not having watched those yet, is that for drilling pilot holes for inserts,

• first I create or buy an accurate template- such as fabricating one from BK1 phenolic, and lacking CNC, using an actual driver very carefully for hole location
• If I'm lazy and want to work fast, I use a driver or equivalent part as a template drilling tool- like substituting an RSS210PR as a drill guide.
• Also, I usually actually measure the insert body diameter with a dial caliper, either fraction or decimal, and pick my drill bit size to match it closely- especially for those inserts that do not come with a selected drill bit.

[JonMarsh]

Of course, I'm being Kaptain Obvious for the most part here, but sometimes it bears repeating.

[technodanvan]

I'm curious how well the taps work in varying types of plywood. I'm sure very well in hard maple or pinblock; probably something less well in birch. I wonder if there would be a way to 'harden' the threads with CA or something.

[Scareurpasenger]

I wonder what that the reason is for the difference in the video. Does it have to do with the thread count vs the size? Alternatively, it might be the way the threaded inserts crushes the wood rather than cuts it with the tap.

How likely is one to cross thread wood compared to metal?

Still a fan of Rampa😀

[Steve Manning]

I wonder what that the reason is for the difference in the video. Does it have to do with the thread count vs the size? Alternatively, it might be the way the threaded inserts crushes the wood rather than cuts it with the tap.

How likely is one to cross thread wood compared to metal?

Still a fan of Rampa😀

I think you might be right about how the threads are cut with a tap. I'm with you on the Rampa inserts and for small bolts I think there needed. For 1/4-20 on up it might be another story. I was rather surprised by the performance differences in the video which was why I thought it might be of interest.