Sure, but wouldn't it get rid of any thread lock as it would drop into the cut outs in the tap where as with a bolt the old thread lock has nowhere to go? Not trying to argue the toss, just trying to understand.
Correct. an M8 tap for example has 3 flutes to allow the material that is cut from the hole to escape. When cutting, I would turn maybe three quarter turn forward, half turn back to prevent 'clogging'. a bolt would just push the material down the cavity
What I have done in the past to clean threads that have got powder coated or paint over-spray, is to saw cut two angle slots in a correct size bolt and then run that into the thread to clean it.
Yes it would have there been a build up of crap there, as the flutes in a tap would allow the debris to go.
Cut 2 slots in a standard bolt 90 deg to each other with a fine (junior) hacksaw. The sharp edges on the threads in the slots will adequately clean the threads and will be less likely to re cut and ruin a thread. Cheap too
Agree with the above. Taper or secondary taps at most. Shouldn't need plug taps for cleaning. For what you're after, maybe it'd be better to buy an M5, M6, M8 and M10 secondary tap and have done. Wouldn't bother with a die set. Don't think you'll get much use out of it.
well yes they will be better , but , They are also 5 times as dear . A blue point tap and die set is about £150 where the same set of Dormer is nearer £750 .
As mentioned I would stay clear of using taps to clean out threads. I have use a bolt of the correct size and ground a flat down the length of the thread about a 1/4 of the dia in depth. The crud in the hole gathers in this area as you screw it in. Cheers Gaz
