Tool for installing thread insert

Claim 1

An externally adjustable tool for advancing a thread insert to a predetermined depth in a complimentary threaded aperture in a workpiece, said tool comprising a tubular body having a central longitudinal axis, an insert carrier having a threaded portion engaged in a complimentary threaded bore in said body and movable relative thereto along the central axis thereof, a locking nut in threaded engagement with the threaded portion of said carrier and adapted to be tightened against said body to rigidly secure said carrier relative thereto, and a mandrel within said body and carrier and threadably engaged at one end with said carrier for rotation about and movement along the central axis of said body and carrier, the other end of said mandrel adapted to be driven in rotation by motive means connectable to said body, said mandrel being advanceable a fixed distance relative to said body and a selectable distance relative to said carrier upon actuation of said motive means, said mandrel first engaging an insert in said carrier and thereafter engaging a stop on said body to stall said motive means, the extent of advancement of said mandrel relative to said carrier and workpiece being a function the position of said carrier relative to said body whereby said body and carrier can be rigidly biased against the workpiece and said insert is advanced a predetermined distance into the aperture in said workpiece upon advancement of said mandrel without relative movement between any portion of said body or carrier and said workpiece.