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SS hardware

levib1

Newbie
Joined
Dec 7, 2016
Messages
55
What do you use to replace original hardware throughout the chassis? Some of the nuts and bolts on my 74 have seen better days. I assume grade 8 hardware for suspension and steering componentsÂ… is that zinc coating adequate or do you paint the hardware?

Stainless for other less critical parts? Again, paint or leave natural?

Also, I have used McMaster for many projects in the past, but in this case, would rather purchase in smaller quantities. Do you typically shop locally? Any online availability in smaller quantities?

Just wondering how others are doing it.

Thanks!
 

AZ73

Contributor
Bronco Guru
Joined
Mar 28, 2012
Messages
3,542
I used yellow zinc on every bolt, washer, and nut/nyloc. I used SS screws where screws where required. McMaster is way too expensive. Go to Boltdepot.com for the usual 9/16, 5/16 etc. For the body panel bolts (like on fenders, top to body) you can get those at CJ pony or any number of other on-line places. Search for Ford bolts yellow zinc. You can use SS bolts, and buy entire kits from the bronco houses or individual pieces from Boltdepot, but the yellow zinc was a design choice for my build.
 

armynavy17

Contributor
Full Member
Joined
Jan 9, 2010
Messages
361
I have an unhealthy affinity for stainless. I'd say if you can afford it, go for it, but it certainly isn't necessary.

As you already did, take into account its service. SS has different properties than mild steel and is not a universal replacement.

Paint is irrelevant to stainless. Unless you like the look one way or another, it doesn't matter.

As for zinc, I personally coat the hidden portion of the bolt and threads in anti-seize. If you think about how long the original bolts have been there and the condition they're in, you'll see that there isn't any reason to go crazy preserving the new ones unless you just enjoy the process.
 

Rustytruck

Bronco Guru
Joined
Feb 24, 2002
Messages
10,875
stainless needs antiseize every time you want to use it. I like the plated bolts. you can have your stock bolts cleaned and replated. some people do that.
 

TNcowboy

Full Member
Joined
Aug 29, 2019
Messages
220
stainless needs antiseize every time you want to use it. I like the plated bolts. you can have your stock bolts cleaned and replated. some people do that.

Exactly right on the stainless bolts
Stainless galling is a real problem
 

BUCKWILD

Full Member
Joined
Jun 20, 2016
Messages
350
Loc.
Butte county
I like CAT bolts the black oxide coating holds up well and blends in with black frames/suspension and they are stronger than a typical grade 8 bolt. The cost is more but not much when you like the look
 

Madgyver

Bronco Madman
Joined
Jul 30, 2001
Messages
14,678
SS bolts is soft against the steel nuts and or steel tabs. it galls and ends with messed up threads.
 

pbwcr

Sr. Member
Joined
Jul 11, 2007
Messages
623
SS is for appearance not strength. Thus I would not recommend SS for any structural placement.
Galling can be lessened I you use Nickle anti-seize, but galling will persist.
What to do?
Answer use grade 8 bolts and nuts with the yellow cadmium plating.
Yes, the race guys use bolts/nuts that are stronger that grade 8.
You can decide if the appearance of G8 is as good as SS.
All the structural bolts/nuts on all my builds are G8.
 

brady1971

Newbie
Joined
Apr 11, 2015
Messages
13
Grade 8 hardware for anything serious….SS for interior hardware. I find the SS screws to be soft anymore. Lowes here local (Ohio) carries a lot of grade 8 bolts in stock. I work in the industrial food industry. We use SS grade 8 bolts for structures…..really expensive. Anti seize is a must.
 
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