Steering box bolts

[Tommy]

I was finally trying to install my new front bumper and steering box spacer.  I was having a really hard time holding the box in place and getting the bolts lined up and started so I had a friend come over to lend a set of hands.  I crawled underneath to hold the box up while he started the bolts.  Got one started, then moved to the second one.  After a minute he says "wow, this is getting really tight and I still have a bit to go."  So I stop and have him back it out and sure enough, totally cross threaded. I've seen some people say drill and tap for 1/2 inch bolts, but is there any reason not to drill through it and use a longer bolt with a nut? It's dark out now so I can't really picture it but I feel like there was room.  Any thoughts?

 

Thanks

[Eagle]

Look closely at the ears on the box. Going from memory from the last time I changed a steering box, I doubt there's enough space to get a nut on there and properly tighten it. Remember, you also need a washer and a lock washer to be secure.

[Crash]

Taps are cheap

[Jeep Driver]

If you cannot thread it by hand FIRST!..........stop and figure out why.

[Tommy]

I didn't realize it was going on hard. I was laying on the ground holding the box up. My buddy isn't super mechanical. Ain't no biggy

[Tommy]

I thought I'd post the conclusion of this one in case anybody else searches for similar. It was the lower forward one that stripped. I drilled it to 7/16 and used a 7/16x5 bolt with allegorist nut, luck washers, all that. This way I can tap it to 1/2 later if I want. The other two bolts are threaded into the box like usual.