Stripped bolt hole

[Barnsnake]

Maybe, but if it failed, you might be so oversized a helicoil wouldn't fix it without going to the next size up. That might be pushing the limits on both the manifold and the expansion tank flange. The expansion tank puts more strain on that connection than a simple water neck.
A helicoil kit is cheaper than a towtruck charge. I would fix it right the first time.

[strictlypersonl]

Also, you might consider a Keensert-style insert. You don't need a special tap for them so if you have a set of standard taps, you save a few bucks.

Visit mcmaster.com and search for "key locking insert".

[RICK LAKE]

psychoSEAL Helicoils are good for a quick fix with a LOW torque setting for that bolt, under 50 lbs. in Aluminium. Any thing over I go with a timesert or Keenserts. They are a solid insert with a locking pin that pushes into the edge of the threads and keeps the insert from coming out of the hole when removing a bolt. You should use a touch of high strenght loc-tite (RED) to help with keeping the insert from twisting also. Timeserts come in a kit with drill bits, installers, flat surface face installers, and the correct tap. A master kit is about $300.00. Expensive yes, but you will only need to buy this kit once. I just replaced all the helicoils in my shelby heads because they keep loosening up after racing. I broke a heavyduty rocker shaft and ripped half the threads out of the head. Installed 8 new timeserts, no problem yet with rocker assemblies coming loose. Make sure you allow the loc-tite 24 hours to cure if you can. There is a little more work with timeserts. This is the only differents. You can repair the hole on the car as long as you can get a straight shot to the hole. If you go through the manifold into the water jacket, make sure you add pipedope to the threads on the bolt. The surface must be dry for it to work and last. Rick L. Ps. Do you know Jim Watson? either JR or SR.