Early Commando sidestand helicoil

ProblemChild · Oct 28, 2013

Hi all,

I have a 1970 Commando 'S' and some years ago the threads for the sidestand mounting block stripped out. I still have everything including the bolts and am looking to repair/re-thread the block. I am wondering what thread the original bolts are, and whether to get a hela-coil kit or have someone fill and re-tap (if that is an option). The closest equivalent in the local auto store looked to be 5/16-24 but I seem to recall the originals being a different measurement. Thanks for any suggestions.

DogT · Oct 28, 2013

Re: Early Comando sidestand helicoil

I replaced my old bolts (good bracket threads) with 5/16-24 UNF. If they had been WW they would have been 5/16-18. But I'll be glad to entertain other opinions.

I also replaced that pin and clips with a 7/16 grade 8 bolt and nylock. You'll have to put the nut on the outside. There is a good fix for that pin if you want to keep it, drill and tap a grub screw into the pin/frame and forget the clips. Safer.

edit. On second thought, the UNC may fit in there even with the thread form. If you really want me to check I can pull one out.

Dave
69S

ProblemChild · Oct 28, 2013

Thanks for the input Dave. After looking around more I find that 5/16-24 is mentioned a few places so maybe that is it after all. Should do the trick.

DogT · Oct 28, 2013

I'll check tomorrow anyhow, just to make sure my spreadsheet is right.

Dave

DogT · Oct 29, 2013

Thinking last night and looking at the parts book this morning, I remember those prop stand clamps were held on with studs, washers and nuts. Stud is 06.0779 and nut is 03.0348 and the list of those parts I have show them as 5/15-24 UNF. I certainly have a UNF bolt in mine. I replaced a lot of the studs and nuts with SS bolts on my bike. So I have a whole box of studs and nuts I've kept.

Anyhow, you're good with a 5/16-24 helicoil.

Dave
69S

ProblemChild · Oct 30, 2013

Thanks Dave. I have one arriving Friday and I will see how it goes this weekend.

Torontonian · Oct 30, 2013

The bracket stud area stripped on one of the 2 lugs way back when, found a perfectly good filth-coated one at a swapmeet for 5 bucks a year later.

DogT · Oct 30, 2013

Yeah, the helicoil is probably going to set him back $25 or so, but what are the chances of finding that part when he wants it? About like flying to the moon?

Torontonian · Oct 31, 2013

Flying to the moon : Go see Gravity on the BIG screen.

ProblemChild · Oct 31, 2013

I could use the practice with the Helicoil anyway (although I have been told Timeserts are better). I am inspired to get this thing back up to it's former glory as soon as possible so is worth the expense, but I hear what you are saying about making finds at swap meets.

Early Commando sidestand helicoil

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