Crossthreaded the Condensor -> Compressor fitting. How can I fix this?

[nullset]

I was installing the new hoses, and somehow managed to crossthread the conneciton at the top of the condensor. I can't seem to get it on straight at all now, and the threads are pretty jacked up.

Every time I get it started, it seems to join the new damaged threads instead of the correct ones.

1153911541
Pictures that may demonstrate the bad threads.

What are my options for dealing with this? If I got a die of the right size (anyone know the size and thread pitch?), could I cut new threads? Could I file down the outside / damaged threads and enable it to grab properly? Could I just keep going with it crossthreaded, and hope it holds and the Oring does its job to make the seal?

Thanks for any advice.

--buddy

[DMCMW Dave]

I was installing the new hoses, and somehow managed to crossthread the conneciton at the top of the condensor. I can't seem to get it on straight at all now, and the threads are pretty jacked up.

Every time I get it started, it seems to join the new damaged threads instead of the correct ones.

1153911541
Pictures that may demonstrate the bad threads.

What are my options for dealing with this? If I got a die of the right size (anyone know the size and thread pitch?), could I cut new threads? Could I file down the outside / damaged threads and enable it to grab properly? Could I just keep going with it crossthreaded, and hope it holds and the Oring does its job to make the seal?

Thanks for any advice.

--buddy



You can probably save it. I have a die for that, but I'll have to check the size tomorrow or maybe later today. It's not a metric pipe.

DO NOT try and screw it on tighter without recutting/repairing the threads. It will just strip the whole thing. You can probably save this one if you are careful but you are really close to having to buy a condenser.

[nullset]

You can probably save it. I have a die for that, but I'll have to check the size tomorrow or maybe later today. It's not a metric pipe.

DO NOT try and screw it on tighter without recutting/repairing the threads. It will just strip the whole thing. You can probably save this one if you are careful but you are really close to having to buy a condenser.

Thanks Dave.

I definitely was not planning on trying to tighten it down, unless it was absolutely a hail mary last ditch effort.

I do have a project car, but I'd rather not take her condensor out just yet.

--buddy

[DMCMW Dave]

I definitely was not planning on trying to tighten it down, unless it was absolutely a hail mary last ditch effort.


BTDT - didn't work.:mad:

[Delorean Industries]

Small side is 6 an large side is 8 an.

[nullset]

Small side is 6 an large side is 8 an.

So should I get a die that size, or a thread file? I'm not sure where to start.

--buddy

[DeMopar]

If you can get your hands on the proper die, then that's the way to go as Dave said. If you can't, or are in more of a rush you can try a thread file. Just have to be really careful with those but I have used them (on A/C fittings) before with success. Good luck!

[Nicholas R]

I'd start with a thread file then work up to the die. At least get the threads kind of close with the file, otherwise you'll just cut new cross threaded threads with the die.

[nullset]

I'd start with a thread file then work up to the die. At least get the threads kind of close with the file, otherwise you'll just cut new cross threaded threads with the die.

We tried our best, but it could not be saved. We got the threads looking nice, but it wouldn't seal properly.

I'm ordering a new condensor tomorrow.

Lesson learned! Be careful not to crossthread things!

--buddy

[David T]

Using a die is not the best idea, it may follow the cross-threaded threads. The best way to try to save the coil is to use a needle file and very carefully and slowly try to fix the threads. Very difficult to do with the coil in the car. Whenever working with these fittings the best thing to do is to use a little refrigerant oil on the threads and run the fittings together by hand. The aluminum is so soft that if you use wrenches you will not feel any resistance and too easily cross-thread the fitting. Check the other end now (the hose) or you may redamage the fitting on the new coil. There are shops that can remove the damaged fitting and weld a new one on so don't throw the coil away.
David Teitelbaum

[Ron]

The best way to try to save the coil is to use a needle file and very carefully and slowly try to fix the threads.
David Teitelbaum

No, Nicholas is correct. The best way is to use a thread file first. (And remove the coil so you can use it correctly.)

Use the right tool for the job!
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