Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): muffler screws on 12.5 B&S motor, aluminum heads, bolt heads

Question
The screws worked loos on this muffler, the block is aluminum. I can't use a screw on because the hood will hit it. I used to hear of a helicore(sp?) you could screw into aluminum heads. is ther such a fix? Thanks

Answer
 Hello Mike:

 If there are Still some Threads Left and the Bolts are Just Loosening Up then the Lock Plate is Missing from the Muffler. The Lock Plate is Flat with Holes that match the Muffler Mounting Holes. The Bolts go through them and Once the Muffler is Installed and Tight, the Ears on the Lock Plate are Bent Up to Lock the Bolt Heads and Prevent them from Vibrating Loose. Helicoils DONT WORK for the Air Cooled Engines. The Aluminum Expands Faster than the Steel does and the Helicoil comes Out. Use the Lock Plate and ReTap the Holes to the Next Size. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John