Snapped EZ Out in Broken Knock Sensor Stud. About to lose my mind

[Kaeden]

So I was changing knock sensors last weekend.. the front one came out just fine, however the actual sensor part of the rear one literally fell off (presumably due to rust) the stud part as soon as I went to put a socket on it. That being said, I spent hours, countless hours last weekend drilling holes in the stud and messing with EZ outs trying to get the stud out. In the process managed to snap three EZ outs. (In three different locations on the stud)

So I’m back at it again this weekend. I went and bought a Helicoil kit so I’m not really concerned about the existing threads. I just want the damn thing out. I’ve dulled numerous drill bits, as well as center punches. I’m at a loss and about to lose my damn mind. Any suggestions.

05 Tahoe 5.3 by the way

 

[Scottydoggs]

buy a new valley tray https://www.ebay.com/i/151920713825?chn=ps

 

[Kaeden]

They don’t thread into the valley tray though do they? I was under the impression they thread into the block


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[Scottydoggs]

its just a few bolts holding it on, pull it off and check it out. seems to me they thread into the cover.

 

[Kaeden]

its just a few bolts holding it on, pull it off and check it out. seems to me they thread into the cover.

Confirmed. Just tried it to see what was there and they do in fact thread to the block not the valley pan.

 

[Scottydoggs]

if the knock sensor is busted off and your into the threaded base would it not be easier to pull the tray cover off to work on it. not having to deal with working in a few inch deep well should help things move along.

 

[Kaeden]

if the knock sensor is busted off and your into the threaded base would it not be easier to pull the tray cover off to work on it. not having to deal with working in a few inch deep well should help things move along.

Yes absolutely. I pulled the valley cover and am now working with it off. Sorry I would post pictures but for some reason Tapatalk is not allowing me to post from my phone


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[Scottydoggs]

best of luck to ya. seems like a pita. worst comes to worst, you'll need to drill and re tap it. if your lucky you dont kill the original threads and they are reusable.

if you grease the drill bit tip it, keeps the metal from going to far, new or very sharp metal drill bits used at slow speed are your friend for sure. seal off any holes metal shavings can get though too.

now that you can get to its base, you can also try heating the base up, spraying with your fav penetrating oil to help free it up too.

 

[HiHoeSilver]

C4 and a 6.0 oughta do it.

 

[Kaeden]

Thanks guys but I got it out. Used a dremel to grind away the EZ Out then started drilling the stud out and then used helicoil.


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