I destroyed one of bolt threads (over tightening) which attach the motor to my soft top frame.
I didn't want to risk using the soft top without all the bolts holding the motor.


Right now I'm thinking about drilling out the remainder of the messed up bolt thread.
I'll then use a bolt and nut to hold the motor.

The problem however is here


I can't think of any way to get a good grip on the bolt or nut inside that little space while I tighten it.


Also does anyone have any other ideas of what can be done?

I have another soft top frame belonging to an ap1 plastic window top.
If I read correctly, the ap2 glass window top is not directly compatible with the older frame.

 

You could drill out that flat-head bolt, then use JB-Weld or similar to hold the new bolt in place while you tighten the nut. Should be strong enough to get you to the recommended torque. Even if not -- hey, it's like the 3rd or 4th bolt holding that motor on, so how tight does it really need to be?

Also, looks like a conventional hex bolt head might not fit in there because of the curve in that bracket, but you could use an angle grinder to remove enough material from one side of the bolt head so that it just fits in there. Then JB-weld it, wait 24hrs, and tighten away.

Oh yeah, it's correct that the plastic-window isn't the same as the glass-window frame. There are some DIYs to get a glass window onto the old frame, but it's a major PITA. Definitely better to try fixing that bolt.

 

use a magnetic stick to hold the nut on that tight side while you hand tight it from the motor side or if you have a tap and die set, just tab it and you wont have to use a nut.