Using a die to thread solid rod - what am I doing wrong?

[Highmark]

I've been trying to build some links out of 4mm steel rod using a 4mm die for awhile now and I just can't seem to get the threads right.

I uses Kobalt taps and dies like these:
Shop Kobalt 26-Piece Tap and Die Metric Set at Lowes.com

Basically, no matter what I do the die will cut down the rod reducing the OD, but not cutting any threads (it strips them away every time). Maybe I'm just using crappy dies - any suggestions?

[DieselJC]

This is the chart I usehttp://microadvances.com/drillchart.htm along with a Starrett chart..gives min and max for outside threads..stay below max and threads should be fine..keep die 90deg to the rod being threaded and use alot of oil..go half turn then back off..another half back off etc etc...slow is the key.

JC

[Charlie-III]

Keep in mind, there are TWO SIDES to a die. One had a lead-in taper to get you started.
If you try from the wrong side, you WILL FUBAR the threads.

Most dies have a label stating something like "start from this side" on a large face of the die.

Maybe you saw it, thus apologies.
Maybe you didn't see it, thus, have fun.

[C*H*U*D]

Also are you using cutting fluid?

[rangercat23]

Originally Posted by C*H*U*D

Also are you using cutting fluid?

X2 Gotta keep it good and lubricated

[SMR 510RR]

You need to use a bit of downward pressure to get it going, sounds like it is not actually grabbing and running down the material like it should be.

A pic would be helpful to see if you are maybe missing something obvious.

[Erin]

I was having trouble with starting and keeping die square to rod.

Little trick that works for me is chuck up the die/holder in a vice, lead facing up. Put your rod in a drill. Slowly feed the rod into the die just like you are drilling a hole.

This is only for the first thread or two. Remember to go back and forth to clear chips just like you would by hand.

I start all my threads this way then finish by hand normally.It has worked great on 3/16" Ti, 304 ss and alum with 10-24 die.

May not be the correct way to do it, but it allows me to get threads started much more square and true.

[Duuuuuuuude]

Originally Posted by Highmark

Maybe I'm just using crappy dies - any suggestions?

I used to be a big fan of Kobalt, but the last few items I've bought ended up being suckish.

For taps and dies and drill bits you're really better off buying the good stuff in the sizes you need instead of an inexpensive kit that you might only use half of. They'll cut easier and cleaner, and last a lot longer.

[doublej]

Use standard sizes. Idk why but I had the same issues with metric. My links were hit or miss.
I swapped to standard and not only was it easier but came out a lot cleaner.

I think it has todo with metric just needing to be closer tolerances.

[bob1961]

one tip everyone else missed is to taper the end of the rod on a bench grinder so the die has a good area to start....also i use a short socket extention with a knurled handle with the die in a 5/8" socket to start threads by hand....then i switch to the regular die handle to finish up, and yes you must use a back and forth motion to clear cutting off the rod....i bought both 5 pc tap and die sets from home depot made by irwin.......bob

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