I am starting the flow through console conversion and was wanting know how people have attached the front bracket using the pre-stamped holes. I know fx4andharley made his own bracket. Ericd used the right holes but i cant find any reference as to how they were used. Drilled and tapped??

Any help would be appreciated!

 

My '05 SCrew had hex shaped holes without weld-in nuts about 8" infront of the original seat bolts. i got a couple bolts, washers and lock washers from the garage that just fit in the hole and bolted it that way. i had to move the fuel lines a little and pull the push clip to drop the insulation under the truck to get to the bolts, then put them back. there is a bolt holding a bracket from the fuel line on the transmission, taking that off gave me enough room to move them out of my way! all is well.

 

I ended up using a couple M8 inserts (sometimes called rivnuts) in the factory locations. Here's an example of the inserts:

Rivnut Inserts

Here's an example of an install tool:

Install Tool

It's as simple as drilling out the factory 'hex' hole to the correct diameter, and crimping the inserts in place. I had an air tool when I did mine, so the process was fairly quick. With a manual tool, it'll take about 5-10 minutes a hole.

Hope that helps,

E...

 

Thanks. Where did you get the rivnuts? The tools looks like it is 30 bucks

 

The guys in our warehouse at work use the inserts for repair work, so I had it pretty easy - Just grabbed a couple from stock and used the air install tool we have to put them in.

I agree, $30 for a one time use tool is a bit steep. Do you have any companies in your area that do sheet metal work? You might be able to strike a deal with somebody.

E...

BTW - Check with your local Ford dealer's shop to see if they have thread repair kits for those inserts. If you can get two of the factory 'hex' style inserts, you won't need a tool. You can wind the hex style in with a standard bolt.

 

Harbor freight has the tool and inserts for $14. I will pick that up tomorrow. I might find another use for it.

 

I used toggle bolts for the front bracket. Just drill out the front holes a little and slide the toggle bolt through and tighten. Couldnt be easier.