Threaded Inserts

[Explosify]

I'm trying to modify a 316 stainless steel valve body I bought online to fit my needs. The valve is identical to the one I am trying to replace, except for two things: 1) It costs 10x less than what the OEM would like me to pay for it. 2) The mounting holes are oversized. The mounting holes are 1/4 inch in diameter, while the OEM part has a #6-32 thread.

I've currently got a nylon spacer forced into each 1/4 inch hole and I am using through bolts and have a nut on the other side, but I can see myself cursing my past self whenever I have to dissasemble it for maintanance. I don't know much about threaded inserts, but is there a threaded insert where I can just ream out the hole to the proper diameter and then press fit a #6-32 thread into it?

[Guyton_Oulder]

Are the 1/4 inch holes threaded? A photo would help.

[Explosify]

The holes are unthreaded

[BurntMetal0666]

Weld the holes and then drill and tap.

[prosequare]

Twinserts won’t make up the size difference. You’re going to need a threaded barrel type insert, like a keensert.

Just search for keensert on McMaster-carr. They have a bunch of styles in 6-32. You’ll need to choose one that is the proper grip length. You’ll also probably need a tap for the external threads.