Thread: Stripped Flywheel Bolt Holes

I managed to strip two of the holes where the flywheel attaches to the crank. In the course of my required search, I learned that my options are:

1. Repair threads with helicoil/time sert
2. Drill and retap for a larger bolt.

The problem with 1 is helicoils can back out. Option 2 can throw off the balance of the flywheel. I have read all the threads, and there does not seem to be a consensus solution.

I tend to believe that I am boned which ever option I take.

So what do you guys think the better method.

Thanks!

I left out a couple of important details.

This is a stock JDM high-port in a 91 SER.

I was doing the clutch/RMS, so the engine is in the car. I can't take it to a machine shop and have a competent professional to fix my screw up.

Thanks in advance.

How close are the stripped ones?

Depending on the spacing, option 2 would be feasible without causing imbalance. How many bolts are there in total?

EDIT: added picture, 8 bolts

I bet the next size up won't fit through the flywheel holes... I wouldn't drill the flywheel holes larger.

There is one hole between the f'ed up holes.

Looks like helicoil is your only option then

make sure your using Flywheel bolts, not the bolts that hold the AUTO flex plate on..

but you maybe screwed an might need to source another crank and some new bearings

I would replace the crank.

Replace the crank. You can enlarge the holes on the flywheel. It has been done before to allow those flywheels to work on FWD-only, engine-swapped, cars that have the GTi-R engine and the user has some other FWD-only flywheel.

The bolts thread into the crank, not the flywheel (as I read the post as is).

Thanks for all of your replies.
I am trying to avoid replacing the crank, and I am scared of using a helicoil on the flywheel. So, we will see how it goes.