If you’re a car enthusiast, you know that replacing or upgrading your coilovers is an excellent way to get the most out of your vehicle.
But unfortunately, if you don’t clean the threads properly before taking on this project, it can end up being more costly and difficult than necessary.
So how do you effectively clean coilover threads? It’s easy when you follow the correct steps.
This article will teach everything from why cleaning your coilover threads is important to which products work best for making them as good as new.
Keep reading so that you’re ready to tackle this task like a pro!
How do you clean coilover threads?
Cleaning coilover threads is a delicate process that requires a bit of finesse.
If done incorrectly, it can cause damage to your coilovers and even lead to dangerous driving conditions.
Therefore, it’s important to understand the steps involved in properly cleaning your coils before you attempt any repairs or adjustments.
Method 1: Sandpaper & Steel Wool
The simplest way to clean off dirt and debris from the threads is by using sandpaper, beginning with a medium-grit variety for eliminating large particles.
For higher precision cleaning, progress onto finer sandpapers. When finished, move on to steel wool; however make sure it’s fine enough not to scratch away at the metal of your coilovers.
This should take care of any residual grime or dust that hadn’t been removed previously.
Method 2: WD-40 & Toothbrush
Another method involves using WD-40 and a toothbrush.
Spray some WD-40 onto the threads of your coilovers and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with an old toothbrush.
The WD-40 helps break down dirt and grime while also providing lubrication for easier brushing action.
Be sure to rinse off any excess WD-40 afterwards as it can attract more dirt if left on for too long.
Method 3: Brake Cleaner & Rag
Brake cleaner is an excellent way to quickly remove dirt from your coilover threads without having to scrub away at them with abrasive materials like sandpaper or steel wool.
Start by spraying some brake cleaner directly onto the threads of your coilovers and then wipe away with a rag or cloth until all of the grime has been removed.
This method should be used sparingly, as brake cleaner can corrode certain metals if overused.
Method 4: Acetone & Cotton Swab
The fourth method is quite similar to the previous one but uses acetone instead of brake cleaner because acetone evaporates much faster than most other solvents, making it ideal for quick cleanups when time is of the essence.
Dip a cotton swab into some acetone and gently dab away at any stubborn grime on your coilovers until all traces have been removed again, be careful not to overuse this method as acetone can cause corrosion if left on too long.
Method 5: Soap & Water
This last method is probably one of the safest ways to clean your coils as soap won’t corrode metal nor will it leave behind any residue like some other cleaning solutions might do.
Start by mixing some dish soap with warm water in a bucket or container – make sure there’s enough soapy water so that all parts can be submerged.
Give everything a nice soak for about 10 minutes before removing each part and giving them a good scrubbing with an old toothbrush.
Rinse off each part thoroughly after scrubbing then dry them off completely before reassembling everything back together again.
How often should you clean coilover threads?
Coilover threads should be cleaned and inspected periodically to ensure they are in proper working condition.
Cleaning should occur at least every 6 months or whenever necessary, to prevent dirt, grime, and other debris from building up and causing damage to the threading of the coilovers.
It is important to use a soft brush and mild cleaners such as soapy water or brake cleaner when cleaning the threads, as harsh chemicals can corrode the metal over time.
Lubricating the threads after cleaning will help reduce friction levels during suspension movement and decrease the likelihood of corrosion.
How do you replace coilover threads?
If your coilovers have worn-out threads, don’t worry—replacing them is quite simple! Here’s how to get it done in just three easy steps.
Step 1 – Remove the Damaged Threads
The first step to replacing coilover threads is removing the old ones.
To do this, you will need a threaded tap and die set, as well as some cutting fluid (such as WD-40).
Start by cleaning the area around the thread with the cutting fluid. This will help make sure that there are no debris or dirt particles that could get stuck in the new threads.
Then use the tap to cut through any remaining debris and remove it from the hole.
Once all of the old threads have been removed, you can move on to Step 2.
Step 2 – Measure and Cut New Threads
This step requires precise measurements so that you get an exact fit for your new threads. Start by measuring the hole diameter with a caliper or micrometer.
You want to make sure that you measure both sides of the hole for accuracy. Once you have your measurements, select a die from your set that matches those dimensions exactly.
Securely clamp your die onto your drill bit, then proceed to cut new threads into the hole using a slow-speed setting on your drill.
Make sure that you go slowly and evenly so that you don’t damage any of the surrounding parts while cutting new threads.
Step 3 – Install New Coils
The final step is installing new coils onto your newly threaded holes.
Start by lubricating each coil with some grease before threading them into place. This helps ensure that they turn easily when tightened down later on.
Next, use an adjustable wrench or socket wrench to tighten them down until they are secure but not overly tight—you don’t want them too loose either.
Once both coils are installed correctly, give them one final check with a torque wrench before taking your vehicle out for a test drive.
Final Thoughts
Coils over threads are a necessity for any car customization and should be taken care of to ensure the best performance possible.
Cleaning these threads, however, is slightly different from typical thread cleaning. It is important to use special lubricants and tools to ensure that the threads stay clean and don’t get stripped away by rust or dirt buildup.
Additionally, it is essential to keep track of your coilovers’ age and condition; regular maintenance will help them last longer.
By implementing these steps, your car can remain stylish and tailored to you while still providing you with excellent ride quality.
Properly maintained coilover threads will also provide an additional edge of safety as worn-out or rusty metal can easily lead to disastrous results on the road.
With the proper upkeep and some TLC, there’s no reason why your coilover threads won’t serve you faithfully for many years.
