Apparatus for installing metallic inserts into thermoplastic material. The apparatus comprises a heating device in combination with a heating element having a first bore adapted to receive the heating device. The heating element is formed into an elongated tip specifically shaped to grasp a metallic insert which is then heated by conduction to a temperature suitable for melting the thermoplastic material. A longitudinal bore in alignment with the first bore and coupled thereto with a second bore extends through the heating element elongated tip. Plunger apparatus slidably inserted in the longitudinal bore and second bore is positioned by spring apparatus located in the second bore to maintain the metallic insert in engagement with the elongated tip of the heating element during the heating and insertion of the metallic insert into the thermoplastic material.