Motorcycle Repair: Damaged threads, honda vtx 1800, metal chips

Question
Hi Mr Wells,
When I replaced a spark plug on my Honda VTX 1800 retro 2002, I damaged the treads (The engine has 2 spark plugs per cylinder).  Many persons form dealerships are telling me that the only way to go is to take out the engine, take the head off, put a hellicoil, put a new gasket, put back the head and the engine (about 10-12 hours work- Well over $1,000).  Some others persons on the net are telling me that it can be done just by retapping the hole (about 1 hour work-$100).  My question is: what is the probability of having metal particules down in the chamber after retapping the hole if I can find a very good mecanic to do the job and is there any way to avoid that?  What do you recommand?   
Thanks you very much.

Marc, form Canada

Answer
You have a problem here. Trying to repair the damaged threads with the head on will drop metal chips in the hole and possibly damage the cylinder walls when starting the bike. My best advise is to remove the head and do the job right. If you dont you may have more repairs in the future.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike