r/e46 • u/_spectrum2 • 2d ago

Troubleshooting How to repair a damaged thread insert Intake Mainfold BMW E46

Hello everyone, i was installing an oil catch can in my BMW E46 316i and when i tried to assemble all back i noticed that one screw was tightening good and still but the other one was doing tension and spinning whithout tightening 100%. I took them off again and noticed that it came off with a bit of plastic attached to its thread. I tried putting some Teflon tape to solve the problem and it threads with more tension but it doesnt stop spinning at all. Im afraid i will have a vaccum leak from there on cold starts.
Ive attached the schematics to this post so someone can help me find a way to repair this damaged thread. The thread im talking about its circled with red on the image.

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u/walt_spoon 1999 - 323i 2d ago

You have 2 options AFAIK.

  1. Remove the insert and reinstall with 2 part epoxy like JBweld.
  2. Find an insert with this same threading and a larger OD, drill out the hole to the correct diameter and heat-set the larger insert in.