- Posts: 1381
- Thank you received: 438
First Time Cutting Outside Threads
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
This is the first time I've ever cut threads with a die and I'm looking for some advice. I've gotten the die to start, it appears straight, and I've got a couple of threads cut. However, I'm at a point where the vice isn't holding the 6mm stainless rod still. This is requiring very very small degrees of progress before backing off and trying again (to prevent the rod from rotating).
I've tried mounting the rod in the vice both vertically and horizontally.
I'm wondering if the rod is actually slightly too big (damn you, Mcmaster Carr!) as I was able to cut the rod with the 7mm die as well (although just barely with the last tooth or so of the die).
Again, I'm new at this - don't have a clue what I'm doing.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- gd4now
- Offline
- User
- Denco where did you go?
1977 KZ650 B1
Pods and Denco header
OLD KAW OWNERS SMILE ALOT
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- z1kzonly
- Offline
- User
- Sustaining Member
- Posts: 2890
- Thank you received: 540
Keep turning back then in to cut.
Blow it off with air to keep clean, and of course have a penetrant, Tool cutting, or PB Blaster. WD40 does not cut it.
Of course stainless steel is harder to work with!
But it will be worth it when your done!
Cause you did it!
Livin in "CheektaVegas, NY
Went thru 25 of these in 40 yrs.
I SOLD OUT! THE KAW BARN IS EMPTY.
More room for The Old Girl, Harley 75 FLH Electra Glide,
Old faithful! Points ign. Bendix Orig. carb.
Starts everytime!
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- testarossa
- Offline
- User
- Attack life, it's only trying to kill you.
- Posts: 3678
- Thank you received: 82
Yes, the die will be a bitch to turn, you will probably be lucky to get 1/4 turn before you need to back up and clean threads. It will help to have a good, even chamfer on the start of the rod. You want to make sure that the die is started straight until the rod makes it through to the back of the die. It should self guide at that point. Make sure that it is well lubricated.
What material is the rod that you have started with?
Is the die nut adjustable? Does it have a little screw that allows you to spread the die out?
If the rod is too large, then it should be turned down to 0.2362" or 6mm for the distance that you plan on threading.
1978 KZ1000 A2 Click--->Build Thread
2004 ZX-10R
2007 Harley Sportster 1200
2020 Harley Street Glide Special
Angola, IN
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
The rod is stainless 6mm rod (I'd have to look back to see what the exact type is).
The die I have is a super-basic Harbor Freight die with no adjustments at all. I suppose the types with adjustments let you "pre"-cut at a larger diameter?
It looks straight when I thread it on without the handle, so I don't think I'm binding by cutting at an angle, but I can't be sure.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
DD, is this a M6 x 1.0 thread that you are trying to cut? If so, then your rod that you are threading should be a 6mm or 0.2362" diameter rod.
Yes, sorry, forgot to answer that. It is M6 x 1.0 as I still have all the fittings from the original rod. I will have to get out the measuring tools and see what the actual diameter is.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- MFolks
- Offline
- User
- Posts: 6650
- Thank you received: 540
1982 GPZ1100 B2
General Dynamics/Convair 1983-1993
GLCM BGM-109 Tomahawk, AGM-129A Advanced Cruise Missile (ACM)
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- steell
- Offline
- User
KD9JUR
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- testarossa
- Offline
- User
- Attack life, it's only trying to kill you.
- Posts: 3678
- Thank you received: 82
I agree with steell and Mfolks on their points. Get an adjustable HSS die. Harbor Freight dies make excellent paperweights. I wouldn't use them for stainless. If you lack the proper dark cutting oil, then used motor oil can work in a pinch.
You are correct about the adjustable part. They don't spread too far, but every little bit helps. Start as big as possible, and then work your way down until your rod fits into the fitting.
You can gain a little more purchase on that rod by wrapping some sandpaper around the rod. Then chuck it with the vice. Make sure that the abrasive side faces the rod. Possibly some thin aluminum pieces could be used in lieu of the wood scraps. Tighten the vice all you want with the aluminum, and the stainless bar will imprint the aluminum pads.
1978 KZ1000 A2 Click--->Build Thread
2004 ZX-10R
2007 Harley Sportster 1200
2020 Harley Street Glide Special
Angola, IN
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
- DoubleDub
- Topic Author
- Visitor
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.