Who can tap?
 

I'm looking for anyone who can or knows a good shop/machinist who can tap an m14x1.5 hole in a thermostat housing I have off the Jeep. I got a new aluminum housing from Autozone and already drilled the 1/2 inch hole per the charts (called for .49xx inches). I need the hole tapped for a sensor for my electric fan conversions. The shops local to me are insane, expecting to charge 30 mins labor minimum for $45+ for this ONE hole they don't even need to drill.

I live in Marshall right above Warrenton in VA. If anyone can or knows someone, please let me know. I've had some suggestions given to me, but most charge a minimum $90 per call. I'm by no means looking for a freebie, but I still think 30 mins/$45-90 is too much. Thanks!

You can do it yourself. I did mine, has not leak in over a year.

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B2CP...ZUeEw1WkU/edit

Thing is that I rarely ever need to tap anything, so dropping $60-70 for a set isn't in it for me... or my wife lol. And my sensor is aimed at the big hose outlet because I worried the top bolt would interfere with the switch. I like your idea of just drilled down the top bolt material a bit... wish I had considered that.

Btw, the tap size is M14X1.5 if it matters.

That is the one I got at Amazon.

.... can't argue with $9!

Btw, since you did this, I'll ask if you don't mind... do you have the switch connected to 12v constantly or only when the ignition is on? My plan was to have the relay with constant 12v power, but only give the switch 12v power with ignition.

Also, did you tap your AC into the system so both fans come on?

That is how I did it. I connected the power for the fan on the starter feed wire, and is a two speed Volvo fan.Low speed at 195 f and high at 201 and with the AC on the low speed and auxiliary fan come on at the same time.

So my tap just got here from amazon a lot quicker than I thought it would. $8 and some change. Did you use a drill press to cut the threads? Not with it on, just to use the downward force while turning by hand? Or if I am able to bolt the housing to a solid sturdy surface will the tap handle thing work? I lack a bench vice and drill press... really don't wanna fudge this housing up.

No drill press, everything by hand.
Like you said, I bolted it to a piece of 2x4.

Done!
 

Got her done just a second ago! Took like 5 minutes plus the $8 for a tap. How in the hell does that cost $40??

Thank you for the advice!

Attachment 227048

Attachment 227049

Attachment 227050

Does that look like enough thread engagement? I figure it's maybe just shy of 1/4 of an inch. I will wrap the threads in plumbers tape like I do the stock sensor.

I am so glad I can get this swap finally going!

Edit: I am ashamed that my nails are as long as they are. I usually keep them extremely close clipped... just been really busy these past couple of weeks.

Looks good, Yes it should be fine.