Looking at my front suspension bolts started some debate here, I thought I'd ask here for some Bolt Guru...

How many threads should be showing through the nut? does this change if i use locking nuts?

Also, I'm using bolts that are threaded all the way. Are these ok, or should i replace with the 'shouldered' type?

lastly, I'm assuming i need HT bolts, is this true?

I was always taught 2 threads minimum to be showing when I was in the RAF. A bolt that's threaded all the way is called a set screw, I'd personally go for a bolt (a shouldered type). You should go for 8.8 grade HT bolts minimum, yes. The grade will be stamped onto the heads. Stainless are no good as these are only around the 8 grade.

Thanks for quick reply

Can anyone reommend a mail order source for bolts?

need them asap!!

at http://www.namrick.co.uk/

Dave

Namrick are reallly expensive... their postage is painful as well...

Screwfix has a huge range of reasonable bolts (all start at 8.8)... Dont use them for suspension, but for everything else... they are cheap and do the job very well...


You should have a local nut and bolt specialist locally... look in Yellow pages... they will be able to supply you with the more specialist bits and pieces without a delay and without getting arse raped for postage!

I used namrick too, can't remember them being that expensive but it was 2 years ago
good service tho i seem to remember.







[Edited on 14/3/09 by foes]

Canadian and American aircraft require 3 threads showing with nylock nuts, grade 8 minimum for suspension and shouldered bolts. I purchased mine from Aircraft Spruce and Specialty in US, very helpfull. www.aircraftspruce.com

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Screwfix has a huge range of reasonable bolts (all start at 8.8)... Dont use them for suspension, but for everything else... they are cheap and do the job very well..

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Hi Mads

I'll probably get shot down in flames for this but ........... if your using 1/2" or 12mm bolts for suspension pivots on a seven type car then they are already 'over engineered'. screwfix ones will be fine.

Regards Mick

8.8 is an HT grade and fine for just about anything on the car.

Only exception I would make is engine internals -- for moving parts such as conrod bolts or cam sprocket bolts you want the best you can get.

However beware bolts from unkown origins, bolts from the far east with fake HT grade markings are coming in from the far east and passed off as the genuine article --- so I would advise buying from a reputable screwed fastener specialist such as Namrick than a pile it high sell cheap operation.