STI HexTap for oil drain screw threads HSS-G - M 13 x 1.5

The VÖLKEL STI HexTap Tap is a specialized cutting tool, not intended for cutting a standard M13x1.5 thread directly. Instead, its purpose is to precisely cut a larger, oversized thread into a damaged bore. Into this newly cut thread, an STI threaded bushing (such as a VÖLKEL Coil-Thread insert or similar) is then installed. This bushing, in turn, features the original M13x1.5 internal thread, ensuring that the existing oil drain plug can be reused.

Its Key Features and Benefits:

• Specifically Designed for Oil Drain Plug Threads: Perfectly tailored to the unique demands of repairing damaged oil drain plug threads.
• Multi-Drive System: Provides maximum flexibility for driving the tap, whether you use a ratchet, an angled screwdriver, or an open-end wrench. This is ideal for challenging, confined spaces beneath the vehicle.
• Repairs, Eliminating Replacement: Facilitates a cost-effective and permanent repair of compromised threads, avoiding the need to replace entire components like the oil pan or gearbox housing.
• Integrated Taper and Bottoming Cut: Efficiently cuts the STI thread in a single, streamlined operation.

This tap is an essential tool for:

• Automotive Workshops and Professional Mechanics: For prompt and reliable repair of oil drain plug threads.
• Agricultural and Construction Machine Mechanics: Where robust and dependable solutions are critical for heavy-duty components.
• Dedicated DIY Enthusiasts and Hobby Mechanics: Who seek to perform high-quality repairs on their own vehicles.

Your Challenge – Our Solution:

• Problem: Damaged Oil Drain Thread: A compromised oil drain plug thread can lead to leaks, potentially causing expensive engine damage. Replacing the oil pan or gearbox is both costly and time-consuming.

  Solution: The VÖLKEL STI HexTap enables the durable restoration of the thread by cutting an oversized bore, into which a new, robust threaded bushing is inserted. This allows for the continued use of the original drain plug. It represents a quick and cost-effective alternative to component replacement.

• Problem: Restricted Access: Oil drain plugs are frequently located in tight, hard-to-reach areas underneath vehicles.

  Solution: The Multi-Drive system, featuring an internal hex for ratchets or angled screwdrivers and an external hex for open-end wrenches, provides the necessary versatility to optimally position and operate the tap even in constrained working environments.

The VÖLKEL STI HexTap combines specific attributes that make it the ideal choice for this specialized application:

1. STI Tap for Thread Repair Inserts:

   STI stands for "Screw Thread Insert." This tap is engineered to cut a thread that is precisely sized to accommodate a threaded bushing (Coil-Thread insert), which is larger than the nominal M13x1.5 thread. The internal thread of this bushing then matches the original M13x1.5 specification.

   • Permanent Repair: This method ensures a robust and long-lasting repair for threads damaged by overtightening, corrosion, or material fatigue.
   • Reuse of Original Plug: You can continue to use the existing oil drain plug, which leads to cost savings and maintains compatibility.

2. Specific Application for Oil Drain Plugs – M 13 x 1.5:

   This particular nominal size is directly aligned with the requirements of oil drain plugs. The 1.5 mm pitch is standard for such applications, ensuring a secure and leak-tight connection.

3. Multi-Drive System – Unrivaled Drive Flexibility:

   • Internal Hex (Wrench Size 4 mm): Perfectly suited for use with a ratchet or an angled screwdriver, enabling quick turns and access in confined spaces.
   • External Hex (Wrench Size 16 mm): Allows for driving with a standard open-end wrench or ring spanner. This versatility guarantees that you always have the appropriate tool for the situation.

4. HSS-G Material – Superior Quality and Extended Tool Life:

   Manufactured from HSS-G (High Speed Steel, Ground), this tap delivers outstanding performance characteristics:

   • Precision: The ground finish (G) ensures extremely sharp cutting edges and high dimensional accuracy, which is paramount for creating a precise STI thread.
   • Durability: High toughness and heat resistance allow the tap to withstand the stresses of threading, ensuring a prolonged service life.

5. ISO 2 / 6H Tolerance – Standard for Precision Threads:

   The 6H tolerance class is the established standard for metric ISO internal threads. It ensures that the cut STI thread mates perfectly with the threaded bushing to be installed, thereby providing a secure and play-free mounting for the oil drain plug.

• Thread Type: STI for metric coarse thread M 13 x 1.5 (the tap cuts a larger thread for the STI insert)
• Material: HSS-G (High Speed Steel, Ground)
• Tolerance: ISO 2 / 6H
• Nominal Size: M 13 x 1.5 (Refers to the target thread of the insert)
• Overall Length (L1): 50 mm
• Thread Length (L2): 21 mm
• External Hex Wrench Size (SW1): 16 mm
• Internal Hex Wrench Size (SW2): 4 mm
• EAN: 4022835190028
• Article Number: 19002

Q1: What precisely is an STI tap, and how does it function?

An STI (Screw Thread Insert) tap does not cut a directly usable M13x1.5 thread into the workpiece. Instead, it creates a special, slightly larger (oversized) thread. Into this oversized thread, a threaded insert (e.g., a thread insert designed for oil drain plugs) is then meticulously screwed. This insert's internal thread then precisely matches the original M13x1.5 specification, enabling the reuse of the original oil drain plug. It serves as an effective repair method for compromised threads.

Q2: Which materials is this tap suitable for?

This tap is optimized for use in easily machinable materials with a tensile strength up to 900 N/mm², including unalloyed and low-alloy steels. This encompasses the typical materials used for oil pans and gearbox housings.

Q3: Can I use this tap for other M13x1.5 threads besides oil drain plugs?

No, this tap is specifically engineered for thread repair applications utilizing STI inserts. It cuts an oversized thread for this particular purpose. If your intention is to cut a standard M13x1.5 thread, you will require a conventional M13x1.5 tap.

Q4: Do I need any additional tools for the repair apart from the tap itself?

Yes, for a complete and successful repair, in addition to this STI tap, you will also need the appropriate STI thread inserts (e.g., VÖLKEL Coil-Thread inserts for M13x1.5 oil drain plugs) and the dedicated installation tool for these inserts. Furthermore, a suitable pilot drill might be necessary to prepare the damaged thread to the correct diameter before using the STI tap. VÖLKEL conveniently offers comprehensive repair kits that include all these components.

Q5: What are the advantages of the Multi-Drive System?

The Multi-Drive system provides you with the versatility to drive the tap using various tools: either with a ratchet or angled screwdriver via the internal hex (SW4), or with an open-end wrench or ring spanner via the external hex (SW16). This flexibility is particularly beneficial when operating in tight or awkward work environments, a common scenario when working underneath a vehicle.