[time-nuts] repairing Maser threads

[Charles P. Steinmetz]

Dave wrote:

>Another solution - especially with metric - is to tap the holes ( 
>only bad - or all - so that they all match) to the next larger 
>Metric size - of the same thread pitch as original - so as not to 
>cut across the original threads, but just cut the same thread pitch 
>to the next size, such as from 5mm to 5.5mm or 6mm. Then you only 
>have to buy a standard - not too expesive - metric tap - and some 
>new slightly larger hardware.

Unfortunately, 5 mm is the only standard metric thread with a 0.8 mm 
pitch, so you'd need a custom tap and would need to make custom 
bolts.  Hence, my suggestion to just make some custom bolts in 
"M5.2x0.8" or "M5.5x0.8," whatever is necessary to get a tight 
fit.  Same approach, but less work (although if someone ever loses 
the bolts, they'll go crazy trying to figure out what to use for replacements).

What I didn't mention previously, but would be good practice if you 
went that way, is to cut one straight flute on the bolts (look at a 
self-tapping machine screw to get the idea) to make it easier for 
them to deepen the major diameter of the original 5 mm thread.

Best regards,

Charles