Purchased a replica Mugen hardtop, previous owner decided to cross-thread the rear mounting bolt holes. What would be the best way to go about repairing this? I was originally thinking heli-coil, but due to the size of the inlaid metal threads now I'm starting to think drilling and inserting some kind of threaded insert (similar to drywall anchor) or a new insert and epoxy may be a better solution. Has anybody ever done this?

 

I drilled the oem hardtop holes larger and went with a 7mm bolt, but that may not be possible on the steel threads as I don't know how large they are. I would heli-coil unless you think there is enough material to go to a 7mm x 1mm pitch bolt. I used an insert on the top part of the oem hardtop when one of the bolt holes stripped on me, but I had lots of aluminum material to work with, not sure about aftermarket carbon tops. You can buy the inserts from Honda or any fastener place in 6mm x 1mm sizing. I think heli-coil may be safest ?, if that fails then go with the larger options ?.

 

proper way is to drill it out remove it and re install a new riv-nut or nut-sert depends on what you prefer to call it. It is essential a nut that works in the same exact fashion as a pop rivet. It should actually be exactly what is currently in the top from the manufacturer.

 

^^ that is exactly what i did.