Article: Tapping Out | MotorWeek Your Drive
In today’s quick tip segment of MotorWeek’s “Your Drive,” host Logan McCombs dives into essential tools for automotive DIY projects—specifically, the indispensable tap and die set. If you’re ready to tackle that summer car project sitting in your garage but find stripped bolt holes getting in your way, McCombs’ insights will be a game changer.
A tap and die set is a versatile addition to any toolbox, enabling car enthusiasts to create new threads or fix damaged ones without the need to purchase new hardware. McCombs explains the two components of the set: the dies for cutting threads onto bolts or metal rods, and the taps for creating threads in metal where none existed before.
To demonstrate, McCombs walks viewers through the simple yet effective process of using a tap on an engine block, highlighting best practices including adding grease to prevent binding and collecting metal shavings. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a straight angle while tapping to ensure proper thread alignment, which is crucial for securing components like brackets or water pumps.
Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY novice, this episode will equip you with the knowledge needed to enhance your car care skills. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your automotive toolkit; tune in to learn more about the art of tapping out.
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Video “Tapping Out | MotorWeek Your Drive” was uploaded on 10/18/2025 to Youtube Channel MotorWeek