K321 QL Engine Mount Bolts

[nutzboutoldies]

I'm getting along with the 1450 K321 engine rebuild and at the point of installing the oil pan. When I took the engine out there were no bolts in the mounts, the engine was just sitting on the mounts. One bolt was broken off and the rest were gone. I was able to remove the broken bolt but now I'm worried about the other bolt holes. The threads look a little weak like they may not hold and fall out again or strip when I reinstall the engine. Anyone had this issue before and what's the best repair? I'm thinking thread inserts versus helicoil. I've never installed inserts before but they seem to me to be better than helicoils???

[5 Cub Cadets]

Steve,
Don't really know whether the threaded insert is better than the helicoil, but do know either will be better than the original aluminum threads. (And as I just typed this, I wonder why? I just tapped threads in a larger hole, in the same aluminum! Possibly the insert/coil has more surface area, in contact with the aluminum?) I've used both and can't say which is better, but sure someone will shed more light than me! Used a helicoil to repair one pan( and consider it a pretty good fix) and replaced the stock aluminum pan, with a cast iron one, on another, of my QL's.
Good luck,
Dick

[_DX3_]

Try and find a cast iron oil pan instead of reusing the aluminum one. I replaced the one on mine. There is a lot of vibration at those bolts and to me the soft aluminum just doesn't seem to be a good way to go for holding the engine in.