You can easily install metal thread inserts into wood for jigs, knock-down furniture, or repair stripped-out threads in aluminum or cast iron. The right product and tools make it easy!

#threadedinserts #woodthreads #threadrepair #ezlok

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Threaded inserts are a great way to place durable threads in a variety of materials. Originally designed by E-Z Lok® to repair stripped-out threads in aluminum and cast iron objects, they have expanded their product line to include threaded inserts that provide threads for common sizes of fasteners. There are inserts available for metal, wood products (such as MDF and plywood), and wood itself.

DirtFarmerJay uses them regularly in the shop for creating jigs as well as for “knock-down” (“KD”) furniture. One of his favorite inserts is the knife thread brass ¼” - 20. ¼” thread, 20 threads per inch, are a very common size both for fasteners and jig hardware.

Another benefit in using this type of system is If the recipient of the project or gift isn’t that savvy about woodworking or assembly, the fasteners and inserts are very intuitive to use.

In an earlier episode, DirtFarmerJay showed how to make a simple jig using wood, a bolt, spring, and washers to create an installation tool for installing the inserts, as well as a way to use a drill press (if you have one!) to do the install. You can check that out here:
   • Foolproof Threaded Insert Installation  

Our friends at E-Z Lok® reached out to us after our first episode and provided us both with more insights, product sheets, inserts, and installation kits. No, we aren’t being compensated for this review. But we don’t hesitate to get the word out when we do find a great product line!

We especially like the kits because both the E-Z Lok® proprietary installation tool AND the precisely-sized drill bit are provided. When drilling the hole for the inserts, “close-enough” isn’t good enough. You can’t just round up or down to the next size you have on hand. Too small, and the insert can’t be installed. Too large, and the insert will go in, but it will easily back out, or not have enough thread penetration into the surrounding material to make a secure install.

For the inserts and/or kits for wood, the drill bit provided is a high-quality brad point bit. These types are superior for use with wood over the typical metal drilling bit found in most toolboxes and shops. Brad-point bits cut cleaner holes, don’t wander off the starting point, and exit the work very cleanly. It’s our view that anyone doing even a moderate amount of woodworking should get a set of these bits. You can check out our review of these types of bits and also get a nice discount from the manufacturer (located in the USA) -

   • Best Wood Drilling Bits - Brad Points!  

If you need to repair threads in cast iron or aluminum, the kit comes with a metal drilling bit, and a tap unit to create threads precisely that fit the outside of the new insert.

In addition to the correct bits, E-Z Lok® provides an insertion tool that correctly grips the insert so it can be installed without damage to the insert or the surrounding material.

E-Z Lok® inserts are available in a wide range of sizes and applications (including coil threaded inserts) and can be easily found online. You can check them out at www.ezlok.com.

Now that you know about this great product and its applications, this is another skill that you can JUST DO IT YOURSELF.

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