FCT Tower Stripped

[NCH2oSki]

My fct 2nd generation has a problem. The threaded leg that the tower bolt with the big black knob goes into has stripped out on me. I ended up taking the folding section off to make it to the lake this weekend.

How do I repair the stripped threads? The tower is aluminum, does that pose any issues on using something like a helicoil?

[core-rider]

I stripped one side out last season. I repaired it with helicoils and it's holding up well so far. You need to be real accurate with the angle at which you drill the hole out. If it doesn't line up right the bolt will not want to thread and will bind. Take your time with that step. Also, I installed 2 coils on either side so there would be plenty of threads for the bolt to bite on. You will just have to break off the end of the top coil once installed. I went ahead and did both sides knowing it would have to be done eventually. CC should have done helicoils from the start IMO.

[ronskal]

Agree with Core. Helicoils work real good into aluminum like your tower. Use Loctite to retain the helicoils.

[steve-o]

Third vote for helicoil.

[NCH2oSki]

Picked up a helicoil kit today from napa, should be the ticket!

[DanielC]

I am late to the party on this one.
Helicoil, and Loctite. Do not put the knob in until the Loctite cures, and do not use an excessive amount of Loctite.

[AirTool]

I'm curious...which loctite? the one that requires heat for removal?

[core-rider]

I didn't put any Loctite on mine and haven't seen any problems yet. I did make sure to tighten the second helicoil as tightly as it would go to help hold them in place though. I would think the blue Loctite would be more than sufficient.

[steve-o]

If the helicoil is installed properly, you won't need loctite.