Just checking to see if it is common for the front sway bar bolt holes to strip out? I had one strip out on my 67 442 and noticed right away there is not much meat in the frame where the threads are. I know the torque is supposed to be 10 ft lbs, but looks like someone before me got a little wrench happy.
I installed a heli coil in the stripped hole, and it is holding but I was surprised in how little number of threads there were after drilling out and tapping. Is this a known weakness and has anyone come up with any tricks to strengthen it? Thanks, Matt

 

It's a common problem, most re-tap the hole 1 size larger or use a nutcert.

 

I fished a bolt through the frame rail and down. It was a pain but the problem is solved.

 

That's a great idea! Better idea than trying to get a nut in the frame which I considered.

 

This is unfortunately a common problem with these self-threading bolts, especially if you upgrade to a larger sway bar. Several of the aftermarket suspension companies use nut-serts. What I've done is tack weld a piece of welding rod to a nut and use that to fish the nut down into the frame.

 

I have tie down brackets in those holes. I drilled them out (you could use 7/16 or M12 bolts) and made plates with nuts welded to them, and a shim welded onto the bottom side of the plate where the frame overlap was not present, so it would sit flat inside the frame horn. Then the bracket would be strongly attached. You could do something similar if you need extra strength.

 

All good tips and tricks guys. I have added these to my bag of tricks. Much appreciated!

 

Excellent idea Run!

 

They use these for installing new plows. The bar stock stays in the frame