All Replies on Installing Metal inserts for threads in wood

It would seem that the drill size would be larger for hard wood like oak. It is also important to let the threads of the insert guide the process. Either the installation of the insert ran beyond the desired point or some other force tore the threads in the wood.

-- Phil Allin - There are mountain climbers and people who talk about climbing mountains. The climbers have "selfies" at the summit! Likewise with woodworkers.

Besides tearing the threads (as Phil32 said). Are you backing out the jam nut and then the other nut, before backing out the drive screw (in hardwood the nuts can lock tight on the insert).

-- 👀 --

I would use a 5/16 bolt with a washer and impact the inserts in and then back out the bolt.

Practice on scraps and you’ll learn to finesse in the insert.

Proper pilot holes help a lot.

HTH

I use the type of threaded inserts that install with an Allen key. You can get them in tighter than the soft brass ones.

-- Willie, Washington "If You Choose Not To Decide, You Still Have Made a Choice" - Rush

I use the type of threaded inserts that install with an Allen key. You can get them in tighter than the soft brass ones.

- pintodeluxe

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-4-in-20-tpi-x-20-mm-Zinc-Plated-Steel-Type-D-Insert-Nut-4-Pack-801884/204274222?MERCH=REC-_-PIPHorizontal2_rr-_-202242363-_-204274222-_-N

-- Alaskan's for Global warming!

Oak? Just drill and tap the threads right into the wood. If you’re concerned about durability, then flood the hole with epoxy or CA glue, and chase the threads with the tap after the adhesive cures. Wood will hold machine screw threads remarkably well. Even soft woods like Pine can be tapped for bolts with coarse threads, like 3/8 and larger.

-- Woodworking from an engineer's perspective