Ol' Duffer wrote:
I'm looking for a threading die for garden hose fittings.
I think this might be 5/8"x14 NPT. All the standard tap
and die sets skip over this size. Doesn't have to be
particularly good quality, carbon steel would be okay,
just want to chase threads on an old faucet that has
developed mineral deposits to the point that I can't
get a hose to screw on anymore. The faucet is otherwise
in good working order, and I hate to have to replace it
just because it needs cleaned up a bit. The folks who
make these parts have to have taps and dies, right?
So what are they using and where do they get it?


Sounds like an job for a thread restoring file at or close to the thread
size. Why not see if you can borrow one or find a place where you can
buy just one file covering the pitch you need. Here's some:

http://www.labsafety.com/store/produ...071&parent=209

The ones I've got cover eight different pitches per file, they are
square in section and have four on each end.

Another thought, how about wrapping and tying a bit of rag around those
cruddy threads, soaking it with vinegar and then using a rubber band to
secure a small plastic bag around it to keep the vinegar from
evaporating. Leave it that way for a day or so. You may well find that
the mineral deposits soften enough so you can easily remove them with a
wire brush.

HTH,

Jeff

--
Jeffry Wisnia

(W1BSV + Brass Rat '57 EE)

"Truth exists; only falsehood has to be invented."