As above, I've got two or three front chassis cross member bolt holes that have gone bad, stripped. Is the best repair process to helicoil them to oe, and is this relatively straightforward? Thanks.

 

That's what Subaru recommend. Easy to do if you've got room.
Drill out to nominal bolt size (M8 = 8mm drill)
Tap for helicoil
Insert helicoil
Break off helicoil tag (the bit that sticks out so you can wind it in)

 

Thank you John

 

if it was mine id be looking a time-sert type rather than a helicoil

 

I'll look that up Craig, thanks.

 

I've consulted a local engineering firm, who say the problem with a time sert is that there may not be enough meat on the weld/captive nut to drill out and bed the insert. They have asked for photos, but I obviously can't see the hidden nut, so I'm hoping someone may know if it is the same size as a M10 x 1.25 nut, or if it is possible. Thanks.