an apparatus for applying a thermoplastic powder to internal threads of a fastener includes a vacuum nozzle having an end adapted to engage a first surface of the fastener . a spray tube is sized to be inserted within the bore of the fastener and communicates with a source or sources of thermoplastic powder and pressurized air . a bushing is mounted on the spray tube so that the spray tube is able to slide with respect to the bushing . the bushing is adapted to engage a second surface of the fastener . the spray tube and bushing are movable between clamping positions , where the vacuum nozzle and the bushing engage the first and second surfaces of the fastener , and release positions where the vacuum nozzle and the bushing do not engage the first and second surfaces of the fastener . a fastener holder holds the fastener between the vacuum nozzle and the bushing so that when the vacuum nozzle and the bushing are in the clamping positions , the spray tube enters the bore of the fastener and sprays thermoplastic powder on the internal threads of the fastener with excess thermoplastic powder collected by the vacuum nozzle . the vacuum nozzle and bushing may be machined and to permit either , both or neither of first and second chamfers of the fasteners to also be coated .