Wheel studs threads and the correct die to clean threads

[Boosted Motorsports]

I grabbed a new set of wheels and my car has always had the factory wheels. The new wheels actually allow my lugs to utilize more of the stud surprisingly but there is years of crud and the lug nuts get a bit tight trying to pass over years of buildup and junk mounting the new wheels.

I tried to buy a die online to chase the threads (they are not stripped by any means). But what I thought was the correct size ended up not being the correct fit.

I bought this die (1/2"-20) which I thought is the correct thread pitch?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/252840552462...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Can anyone chime in?

[donk_316]

I wouldn't use a cutter, I would use an old lug and cut the cap off so you can thread all the way down and back up.

Every time I use a die to clean up threads, the threads loosen up.

[Viper vince]

Try a thread file

[ICPREY]

I've used that size die and it worked fine on my 99 GTS. Here is the one I purchased.https://www.amazon.com/Century-Drill...2C+1%2F2-20+NF

[AZTVR]

I wouldn't use a cutter, I would use an old lug and cut the cap off so you can thread all the way down and back up.

Every time I use a die to clean up threads, the threads loosen up.

I've used that size die and it worked fine on my 99 GTS. Here is the one I purchased.https://www.amazon.com/Century-Drill...2C+1%2F2-20+NF

Definitely, I was taught by my dad (a machinist) to use a rethreading die like ICPREY linked to clean up threads rather than a thread cutting die.

[Camfab]

A little overnight presoak with some PB blaster and a stainless toothbrush should remove any residual gunk as well.

[Jacob]

I use Nes Thread Repair Tools.

[No hemi]

I'd go with camfab's solution!. has worked great for me before.

[Boosted Motorsports]

I ended up grabbing the same one as ICPREY https://www.amazon.com/Century-Drill...2C+1%2F2-20+NF

It worked great and didn't cut any of the existing cleaned threads but did a nice job of pulling years worth of garbage from the base of the thread. A bunch of brake dust and junk fell out of the die when done and no metal shavings. Would recommend for anyone with a similar dilemma.