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Operation Instructions
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this document
including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
Before using either taps or dies, test the material to determine that it
is not hardened by attempting to mark it with a file.
• If the material marks with a file, material should be cuttable.
• If the material will not mark with a file,
do not cut threads to avoid tool damage.
Tap Instructions
TAPS are used to cut (tapping) or clean (chase) internal threads into
a pre-drilled hole, such as in a nut or component part.
1. To cut an internal thread, first select
the tap of the desired size and have
lubricating or cutting oil ready for use.
2. The proper hole size is very important to
successfully cut good threads. An oversized
hole will result in shallow threads, and poor
holding power. An undersized hole may cause
the tap to wear prematurely or break. Reference
the tap thread chart for proper hole sizes.
3. Insert the square end of the Tap into the
Tap Wrench, turn the threaded side of the
Tap Wrench to secure the Tap firmly.
4. Precisely align the tap with the direction of the
hole. THIS IS ESSENTIAL. The first cut will help
determine the accuracy of the entire finished thread.
5. Start turning the Tap clockwise, keeping the
Tap aligned with the hole. As the Tap turns, it
will bite into the metal and create threads.
6. After every 1/4 to 1/2 turn of progress, depending on
material hardness, rotate the Tap counterclockwise
an equal amount to prevent chips from building
up in the hole and breaking the tap.
7. Lubricate amply with cutting oil while tapping.
Proper lubrication will result in smoother threads,
and increased tool life. Continue tapping
until the Tap passes through the workpiece,
or the desired thread depth is reached.
8. Carefully thread the tap out backwards
and clean out any chips from the hole.
Die Instructions
DIES are used to cut (threading) or clean (chase) external threads, such as on a screw or threaded rod.
NOTE: It will be easier to start the Die correctly if
the end of the work material is slightly chamfered
with a grinder or file (not included).
1. Select the proper Die size for the rod to be threaded.
The rod stock can be no larger than the thread
size of a Die and should be .005″ to .010″ smaller.
Oversized rod stock may damage the Die, and will
make thread cutting difficult. Slightly undersized
rod stock makes turning the Die easier, and will
result in good threads for most applications.
2. Secure the workpiece in a vise or other fixture
(not included). Ensure that the workpiece will
not move or turn while it is being threaded.
Note that the workpiece may be damaged by
the vise during the threading process. Avoid
clamping on critical surfaces and on threads.
3. Insert the Die into the Die Wrench with the text
facing outward. Tighten the screw using the
included Screwdriver. Use the Screw on side of
the Die Wrench to secure the Die firmly in place.
Screw
Die
4. Place the chamfered side of the Die onto
the workpiece, being careful to precisely
align the Die perpendicular to the rod.
5. Begin turning the Die clockwise. The cutting
edges will begin to bite into the material, and
the Die will begin to thread itself onto the rod.
6. As you progress, apply lubrication, using a high-
quality cutting oil. As with the Tap, reverse
the Die to clear the shavings after every 1/4
to 1/2 turn of progress, depending on material
hardness. Continue this forward and back
process, using proper lubrication, until you
have cut the desired length of threads.
7. Then turn the Die counterclockwise
completely off the rod.