Choose a repair by the condition of the original thread
The Thread Repair Selector separates three very different problems: contamination or light deformation, partial damage, and thread material that is actually stripped away. That distinction matters because cleaning, chasing, cutting and inserting do different jobs. A tool that makes the hole look cleaner is not necessarily restoring its load-bearing thread form.
What each path means
Clean or chase
Use this path when the original thread profile is substantially present but blocked by rust, sealant, dirt or minor deformation. A thread chaser is intended to restore an existing thread with less emphasis on cutting new material.
Re-tap
Re-tapping is appropriate only when cutting is actually required and the resulting thread still meets the application. Running a cutting tap through every tight hole can remove good material from a thread that only needed cleaning.
Thread insert
When load-bearing thread material has been pulled out, an insert can create a new internal thread while preserving the original nominal fastener size. Helical wire inserts and solid bushing-style systems use different preparation and installation steps; follow the documentation for the exact system.
Parent material changes the decision
Aluminum is easy to damage through off-center drilling and may have limited boss wall thickness. Steel usually tolerates controlled cutting better but still needs diagnosis before material removal. Cast iron can be brittle around thin sections. Plastic requires a material-specific insert or repair concept rather than assuming metal-thread procedures transfer directly.
Safety and service information
The selector cannot determine whether a repaired thread is acceptable for a brake, steering, suspension, lifting, pressure or other safety-critical joint. Where an OEM or equipment manufacturer specifies a repair or replacement procedure, that procedure takes priority.