Need Quality Tap 1/2" NPT, Thermometer Install

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Faston

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I need a high quality NPT 1/2"-14 TPI tap to cut new threads in two locations on 1/4" plate. I want the holes threaded so I screw in a pipe plug later if desired. I already have a Harbor Freight tap that can barely chase threads let alone cut new threads. I should have known better...

Suggestions for a reasonably priced quality tap greatly would be greatly appreciated. High speed steel would be very nice. :)
 
Sorry, but I wish I could recommend one to you. I have broken every tap I have bought. They work about one time and then break...
 
Faston said:
I need a high quality NPT 1/2"-14 TPI tap to cut new threads in two locations on 1/4" plate. I want the holes threaded so I screw in a pipe plug later if desired. I already have a Harbor Freight tap that can barely chase threads let alone cut new threads. I should have known better...

Suggestions for a reasonably priced quality tap greatly would be greatly appreciated. High speed steel would be very nice. :)
Click to expand...

If you have a plumber or machinist as a friend ask to borrow thiers, otherwise check the tool department at Home Depot.
 
Any tap not from Horrible Fright is good.You get what you pay for.Make sure to use the right size drill and plenty of lube.
 
Thanks Guys,

Unfortunately I don't know anyone locally that might have a good tap I could borrow. I'll check out the local stores and see what I might find. One thing about buying from Home Depot is that they will take it back if it doesn't cut. I'll just have to be be patient to get it right.

In the mean time I'll use my cheap grate thermometers.

First attempt at pulled pork tomorrow!!
 
MSC, Enco, ManHatten Tool Suypply or McMaster Carr is where I buy the majority of shop supplies, or if need right away, a contractors supply house that sells over the counter will have a quaility tap. Use the recomended tapping fluid for what you are doing, if ordering from above, get kool tool or tap magic...they both work great..
 
Only try to cut about 1/4 turn each time before you back the tap and clear the chips. Use plenty of oil, your taps should last for yrs. Also be sure to start with the proper size hole. Auto parts stores usually have some taps on hand..
 
Fishhook said:
Only try to cut about 1/4 turn each time before you back the tap and clear the chips. Use plenty of oil, your taps should last for yrs. Also be sure to start with the proper size hole. Auto parts stores usually have some taps on hand..
Click to expand...
This. I have taps that have lasted for over a decade - non-professional use.
 
Try a good auto parts store like NAPA. Also WW Grainger or a good local hardware or plumbing store. We are not talking a lot of money for a quality piece. Harbor Freight is not the best place to buy stuff that you expect precision and longevity.
 
Fishhook said:
Only try to cut about 1/4 turn each time before you back the tap and clear the chips. Use plenty of oil, your taps should last for yrs. Also be sure to start with the proper size hole. Auto parts stores usually have some taps on hand..
Click to expand...

This!^^^ So often they are used incorrectly. Not saying the OP was, but good you brought it up. And the smaller the tap, the slower, gentler you're approach must be. To quote Gordon Ramsay, "Make love to it, don't fark it!"
 
Another option is the "Tel-Tru Smoker Thermometer Installation Kit".
 
If you have a good local hardware store you should be able to find one. I find that buying the right numbered drill bit for the tap is the most important step. Buy them as a set and keep them together. Oh, it looks like there isn't a numbered bit for that size, still, make sure the bit is the recommended size. Look here....

http://www.boltdepot.com/fastener-information/US-Tap-Drill-Size.aspx
 
You should be able to get a Hanson tap at Ace Hardware for about $18.
 
Fishhook said:
Only try to cut about 1/4 turn each time before you back the tap and clear the chips. Use plenty of oil, your taps should last for yrs. Also be sure to start with the proper size hole. Auto parts stores usually have some taps on hand..
Click to expand...

Most definitely a good tip. When I chased the factory thread with the HF tap lubricated I could only get around 1/16 turn before backing it out. If I had gone farther I am sure I would have snapped it.
 
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