Need help finding replacement brass insert

I have acquired an old mirror that has two brass inserts in either side to allow it to mount as a pivoting mirror on a dresser or wash stand. The internal threads, originally 1/4-20, are virtually worn away and will no longer hold a stud or bolt properly.


I am unable to find a replacement that has a head as these do. All modern versions appear to be headless. The external threads appear to match that of modern inserts though that is simply a visual observation at this point based on images. If anyone can advise where I might be able to find inserts that match this style, I would greatly appreciate it. I have attached photos.

My plan B is to attempt to repair the threads by using an insert within the insert but I risk damaging the original inserts beyond repair so it is pretty much a last resort.

Insert Side View by DivingDoug posted Sep 25, 2016 at 9:07 AM

Insert Bottom View by DivingDoug posted Sep 25, 2016 at 9:07 AM

Insert Top View by DivingDoug posted Sep 25, 2016 at 9:07 AM

 

Like this?

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/101501-REG/Arca_Swiss_809011_Adapter_Screw_3_8_16.html

You may find one closer if you search these pics

https://www.google.ca/search?q=bras...KEwi9_tL8z6rPAhUIxWMKHTnVCJwQ_AUIBigB#imgrc=_

 

Looks like this company has sets that include that piece. Might have to buy the whole set.

https://www.hardwaretree.com/products.php?cat=Mirror+Mount+Bolts+and+Fasteners

 

Nice find Brad

 

Two options.
Firstly though...there seems to be a lot of meat to the sides of them yet so...
1) Clamp it perfectly vertical in a drill press and drill with successive sized bits, don't go straight to the one you need.
Put something soft yet firm in the clamping jaws first such as leather, rubber...whatever.
Successive steps should cause less damage and is less likely to catch and unclamp it causing spin and damage to the outer threads. Rotary screw/diagonal helix type burrs could size it too by also stepping up since this is brass...I think.
The right sized router bits may work as well but they are usually not the screw/diagonal helix type.
Then tap it to:
>directly take a larger bolt size or...
>use Helicoils to make it 1/4-20 again. Helicoils usually stay in place but this is meant to pivot so you may need to use the permanent Loc-tite for them, not the removable one.
2) I believe there is a Loc-Tite product that forms new threads.
Have fun!

 

Wow!! Thanks for the fast responses.

The one at BH appears to be designed for a flush mount and has a standard screw thread on the outer diameter as opposed to a wood type thread. Trust me, I did tons of image searches and I found some with the hex heads, some with smooth heads, and some with slotted heads but not brass but but really am wanting the old style slotted head in brass.

One of the sets at hardwaretree looks like it might work very well. I am going to contact them and verify the external threads will work with the existing pockets in the wood. Don't want to screw that part of it up.

Thanks guys for the help. Will post up once I get it finished to let everyone see how it went. As I have some other antique furniture I have been dealing with, I may hit this board a bit more often. I have an old UHL Steel Art Desk that could use a little TLC.

Doug

 

On the re-work option, I had figured using helicoils though the risk would be getting too thin after using the oversized H/C tap. The set that VeryBrad pointed me to will hopefully address the situation and if it does, I may try the rework option just as a follow up. I keep a few helicoils around for various other projects.

To hold the inserts, I would actually use a piece of scrap wood and install the inserts into that to hold them firm.

If the online set doesn't work, I will evaluate the loc-tite thread material mentioned as well. I can try that on an unrelated part to see how it performs.

 

What struck me right off was that this part looks like something else. Wouldn't be odd at all that the manufacturer re-purposed some other company's product because it fit their use.
It looks like a carburetor jet though of course it's too big but maybe there is a part like those, maybe for larger fuel systems or an air system.
It's buggin' me......!
I think the Loc-Tite is Threadformer. Since it works on engines this shouldn't be an issue. Be sure it bonds to brass first though.