Icemaker inlet valve stripped!

You can try and clean up the threads with the correct size pipe tap. Take your time and be careful because plastic cuts very easily as you have discovered.

You should be able to f*ck with it and get past those 3-4 threads. Do it with something that matches the size and clean it up a bit then go for it.

Before I'd spend $50 on a replacement, I'd check for plastic fittings available at hardware/building stores. You might be able to redesign what you have and make it better.

Fridge manufacturers and designers don't hold all the secrets.

I've never seen an fridge icemaker with a "garden hose size" inlet. Your description sounds like there is a male thread on the icemaker valve which you were screwing a female threaded fitting onto. Is that it?

Could you post a photo or explain it a little more?

Jeff

A lot of I/M water valves do have a hose thread fitting with a brass adapter that goes from hose to 1/4" flare or compression-- some go from hose to 1//4 or 1/8 female pipe thread, and then another brass fittiing screwing into that. If you can't get the threads straightened out enough for the adapter to screw on securely, you will have no choice but to replace the valve. Shop around--$50 is awfully high. Do not take a chance patching or rigging this thing-- the possibility of major water damage is too great unless this box is outside on a porch or some such. Larry