I stripped the topmost of the 2 6mm Allen bolts that fasten the front of the AC compressor bracket to the engine of my 380sl, and as the attached picture shows, I tried sawing a slit in the head, and using a socket with a flat head screwdriver tip to get it out.

But that didn't work, and I don't have a welder. So I guess I’m going to have to drill it out, and tap a new hole.

However, as I’ve never done that, I was wondering if someone here could tell me how difficult it is, and what size drill bit, tap, and replacement bolt I should use, if I do decide to do it.

As you can see from the picture, I’ll have to go through a hole in the bracket to get to the bolt. So I’ll have to use a long drill bit and a tap extension to get to it. But I don’t see that as being a problem, as both seem to be readily accessible.

OTOH, I’m a little afraid of the tap stripping the aluminum, and having to use a helicoil or other insert to get a new bolt to hold.

So, I would greatly appreciate any advice from anybody who’s done this before.

Thanks in advance.

Bill

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Bill
1981 380sl