Cleveland C55363 Spiral Point Tap M8 X 1.25 Tin Hss

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C55363 is a spiral point tap designed for through-hole threading in metal workpieces. It cuts an M8 x 1.25 metric thread to a 2B class of fit using a two-flute, plug-chamfer geometry that pushes chips ahead of the tap and out of the hole. Built from high speed steel (HSS) with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating, it offers improved wear resistance and lubricity compared to uncoated HSS taps. The D5 thread limit keeps the tap within a tight tolerance band suited for standard fastener fits. Overall length is 2.720 inches with a thread length of 0.690 inches. This tap is installed by machinists, toolroom technicians, and maintenance mechanics working in manufacturing, fabrication, and repair environments.

The C55363 is suited for through-hole threading operations in cast iron and steel. The plug chamfer distributes cutting force across the first several threads, making it appropriate for both machine tapping and hand tapping where through-holes allow chips to exit freely. It is commonly used in job shops, production lines, and MRO settings where M8 x 1.25 threads are required in mild to medium-hardness steel and cast iron workpieces. The right-hand thread direction is standard for the vast majority of fastener applications in these materials.

Key Features

• M8 x 1.25 thread size with 2B class of fit and D5 thread limit for consistent tolerance control
• Two-flute spiral point geometry pushes chips forward through the hole, reducing clogging in through-hole applications
• High speed steel construction provides toughness in interrupted cuts and varying material hardness
• TiN coating increases surface hardness and reduces friction for extended tool life
• Plug chamfer distributes cutting load over the first few threads for smooth entry and reduced tap breakage
• Right-hand cut, no coolant-through — suited for standard lubricated tapping with cutting fluid applied externally

Compatibility

Designed for through-hole threading in cast iron and steel. Suitable for use with standard tapping heads, CNC machining centers, drill presses, and hand tap wrenches configured for M8 x 1.25 tooling.

Installation Notes

Always secure the workpiece fully before tapping and ensure the tap is aligned perpendicular to the hole to prevent thread distortion or tap breakage. Apply an appropriate cutting fluid for the workpiece material — sulfurized or chlorinated cutting oil is typical for steel and cast iron. For machine tapping, use a tapping attachment with torque control to avoid overloading the tap. Inspect the tap for wear or chipping before each use, as a damaged cutting edge significantly increases the risk of breakage in the hole.