gwinder

As I took off the passenger rear wheel I noticed one of the lug nuts didn't come off too easily...once I got it off looks the thread inside the hub is stripped...probably from using an impact wrench....I can get it back on but it's very tight....is it a tough job to replace the hub?

platinum997

I would try a tap first. It's already damaged and if it works, much cheaper and easier than a hub replacement.

I think is m14 x 1.5

Something similar to this you can get at most hardware stores.

jhbrennan

What about the threads on the lug bolt itself - do they look damaged?

gwinder

Yes...I'll need to get that replaced...

SAN997

You need to replace this. The threads are already damaged, so if you just re-tap it, you are removing even more thread. The end result is that the bolt will insert, but the strength will be compromised.

So many Porsche driving folks are willing to risk their life to save $500. Doesn't make sense to spend so much on a car if you don't have the funds to maintain it in a safe operable condition.

Petza914

I'm parting out a set of OEM 997 Lug bolts if you need a few. They're in this ad.

https://rennlist.com/forums/parts-marketplace/963723-fs-assorted-lug-nut-and-lug-bolt-sets-open-end-aluminum-chrome-oem-etc.html#post13974516

platinum997

Not sure I agree with that in his situation. If the threads are mangled, I am with you.

His lug bolt goes in, it's just tight. More than likely a good cleaning with a tap will remove the debris causing the issue.

SAN997

Yes, I agree that it depends on how badly damaged they are. He described them as "stripped", but that would usually mean the screw turns in place, not that it's just a little hard getting in and out. The latter could be due to debris or a slight malformation, I suppose.

He should first try cleaning he threads with a high pressure air nozzle, then blowing them out with something like brake cleaner. Then run a tap through them. After this, inspect carefully to see how much thread remains, using an endoscope, for example. It helps to have one of those thread pitch/depth measuring tools that come in a tap die set. It looks like a Swiss Army knife with a bunch of inverse thread "blades" you swing out. Hold this up to the threads to compare.

StormRune

One additional thought. If the threads inside the hub are damaged yet are marginally salvaged, they may strip the next time... or two or three times later... when the wheel bolt is torqued. Then it will may be difficult to remove. Personally, I really wouldn't want to have to deal with that! It it was just the bolt that was damaged that's a simpler story, but it sounds like the problem is inside the hub itself.

If you don't want to spring for a new hub, you could probably find a good used one a LA Dismantler or similar. Unfortunately, I don't think any of us has answered your real initial question... "how hard is it to remove the hub?"

gwinder

In looking closer at the damage, orly the tip of the bolt is damaged and looks like the first few threads of the hub are damaged.

Bruce In Philly

Contact a Porsche dismantler and get a quote on a used hub. Parts Heaven, DC Automotive, Oklahoma Foreign are just a few.

Peace
Bruce in Philly

secondshot

Don't know much about the hub assembly but this is what i found here: 997.331.605.00 $145.00

http://dcautocatalog.com/illustration/index/824315908

Mumbles

If I was in your situation I would re-tap the thread with good amount of cutting fluid. Try it out using a clean threaded bolt.

Sounds like someone tried to start the bolt off in a impact driver and crossed the threads.

gwinder

Thanks Mumbles...that someone who used the impact driver was me

I will for sure need a new lug bolt and I'm going to try tapping the hub

gwinder

here's a shot of the lug nut