re-tap / helicoil lug threads? (75 300D)

[cscmc1]

Hey folks -- picked up a 1975 300D to use as a winter car yesterday, and I see that three of the five (!) lug holes are stripped or otherwise useless on the left rear wheel. (In other words, I have TWO LUG NUTS holding that wheel on right now! Needless to say, I'm not driving it at the moment).

Has anyone had any luck re-tapping the threads on these rotors while they are still on the car? Anytime I try to start a new lug bolt, it tears up the threads and won't hold. I'm guessing I'll probably need to try to take the rotor off and into a machine shop to have it done... bummer, as I'l going to bet that the calipers are rusted on there pretty solid. Guess I'll need to free them up for any future brake jobs anyway.


Frustrating, as this car runs quite well otherwise, and I'd love to be driving it right now!

Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer,

Chris
cscmc1@eiu.edu

[Rackne]

I have retapped the threads on an 88 Yugo when a lug bolt stripped out, and as a temporary measure it may be o.k. but replacing the rotor with new or salvage parts would be a better solution long term. Just make sure the tap is of the correct diameter and thread count.

[ricali]

My vote is for replacing. your life is worth more than any wonder if it will hold up under heat and pressure. safety should be your first consideration

[Rackne]

Definitely... Rallysports are out, no Silver State Challenge, no re-enacting scenes from The Fast and Furious. Exactly how screwed up are these holes? I mean if the lugs won't torque down then toss the thing.

[Jim T]

Replace it your life and the people around you are more important than money.