TimeSert/BigSert who has used them?

[USMCBuckWild]

I am working on my 02 Subaru forester, swapping out head gaskets on the infamous 2.5 known for leaks. I broke a head bolt getting it all apart, now the new head bolt stripped out inside that aluminum block. The only "reliable" fix that I can find (besides a new shortblock which I really don't want to do) is using these TimeSerts or BigSerts.

Anyone used one? Good luck, bad luck? I read that the Cadillac and Corvette guys use them all the time on their aluminum blocks for head bolts, but no one left any reviews!

I will be using the M11x1.25 inserts, but they need to be at least 26mm long or more. Any suggestions?

 

[jeepinmatt]

I've never used them, but just looking at the design, I like it alot better than a heli-coil. It is much stronger because of the shape. I've used a similar repair with custom manufactured inserts on an M80x6 thread and many M72x6 threads with excellent results.

As far as the "no reviews" part, I would see that as a good thing. People are very quick to post negative stuff about products on the forums.

 

[Pless]

I use the key locking type all the time at work from Mcmaster, but it doesn't look like they have your thread pitch. Looks like the timeserts work basically the same way, I have had good luck with them on CNC equipment, even on tooling that the operators remove and reinstall frequently.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-threaded-inserts/=rbmmu4

 

[USMCBuckWild]

Thanks for the replies gents. I'm gonna check with Edge Bros machine shop in Jacksonville tomorrow and if they don't have the inserts then I will buy the set.