Old school vs. new: Hand tapping versus using a thread chaser on rusty bolt holes

I used to always bust out the tap and die set any time I cleaned up threads on a rusty bolt hole... especially on older equipment frames. That was the only way I knew for years. But about two years ago a guy at a shop in Spokane showed me his trick with a thread chaser set, and I honestly haven't looked back. Taps cut new threads and can weaken the hole if you're not careful, but chasers just reform what's already there. What's your take on this, do you still tap holes or have you switched to chasing? And for those who chase, do you use the spiral ones or the straight flute kinds?

2 comments

2 Comments

abby_black1mo ago

Broke three taps in one afternoon last year on a stubborn Ford block. That was the day I bought a thread chaser set. My wallet still hasn't forgiven me for all those broken taps.

rowanellis1mo agoTop Commenter

Bet you never thought to check the casting flash before you start tapping.