Threaded inserts.

zoomer · #1 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008

How do you get a bolt out of the plastic gas tank when the metal insert is spinning in the plastic?
I have one on the pit cock on a fuel tank that won't turn loose!

zillafreak · #2 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008

try reaching in the gas tank with some long needle noses. but are you sure that is what is happening? i also thought the nut was one with the tank.

zoomer · #3 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by zillafreak

try reaching in the gas tank with some long needle noses. but are you sure that is what is happening? i also thought the nut was one with the tank.

The tank is made with little pockets for these metal inserts. You can't access them from inside the tank It has 2 for the valve and one on either side for the fenders to bolt to them. and 2 on the front top for the hood to bolt to.

Paulie B · #4 (**permalink**) 10-13-2008

Sometimes you can get it to grab by wedging a flat head screwdriver inbetween the screw head and the insert- if you have room.

86 Quad R · #5 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

what you can try is to fill the tank with water and then heat up the metal with a small propane torch. the water should keep the surrounding area cool and confined, allowing things to cool faster after heating. the plastic in the immediate area will follow the heat in the metal and cling to it.