Best way to restore tailgate hinge threads?

[James9100]

Currently in the pre-process of installing the MORryde kit, so far I’ve managed to get the upper tailgate hinge off unfortunately not all the bolts came off with it. Tub bolts came out without issue but ended up breaking off both tailgate bolts. One came out easily enough with a bolt extractor, the other I can’t get out worth anything. Ended up overestimating the length of bolt I had left and drilled right through the bolt.
At this point I think I pretty much just have to restore the threads.
My question is should I try just
re-tapping the hole or should I insert a helicoil? I do have 5/16-18 helicoils on hand so not a big deal to if it’s a good idea but if it’s not necessary I wouldn’t bother.
Thanks!

 

[James9100]

Realized my original question was kinda a dumb question. Here’s a better one…
Am I even able to helicoil the nut plate inside the tailgate or would that not really leave enough meat around the helicoil to be strong enough?

 

[red02tj]

There’s a couple threads about just replacing with nuts/washer instead of using the nut plate.

 

[James9100]

There’s a couple threads about just replacing with nuts/washer instead of using the nut plate.

I could do that but I’d rather not have to drill a hole on the inside of my tailgate.
If a helicoil is a viable option I’d rather go that route as long as there will be enough meat left around it.

 

[James9100]

Think I’ve decided I’m just going to helicoil it. Found a thread where a guy stripped his nut plate and Blaine said (post #7) he could likely just retap it up to a ⅜” bolt so I see no reason a helicoil wouldn’t work.

 

[James9100]

Please advise.
Don’t hit me too hard, this is killing me already.
Drilled out the hole for a helicoil, tapped it, and of course I tapped it way crooked. On top of that there’s also a slight flat spot on the threads. Will the helicoil PROPERLY do its job if I put it in as is or am I at the point of drilling a hole on the inside of the tailgate and putting a nut on?

 

[James9100]

Bump

 

[Rut Row]

the helicoil will work as designed. However the head of the bolt will not be flush with the hinge and may not provide the mechanical strength you need. If you have a spare tire delete you may be okay.

 

[Weasellee]

Bump

I think the bolt will be fine. Torque it and see. But most likely the head will not sit flush