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MCOHIO 02-18-2013 11:12:19 71.72.158.81 Report to Moderator	I used grade 5 bolts from TSC @2.29 per pound. They were coarse thread but I wasn't concerned with being that original. They have bolts up to 10" long and 1" diameter. Check out a bolt strength chart and you might be suprised just how strong a grade 2 or 5 bolt actually is. A grade 2 bolt, 3/4 diameter and smaller has a tensile strength of 74,000 psi. I stay away from grade 8 bolts unless the specific application requires them. I have used these on 2 TE-20s and have never had a problem and one ended up working for a living for about 7 years, after the restoration. [Reply]   [No Email]
Jason S. 02-19-2013 05:54:17 204.54.36.245 Report to Moderator	Re: A good rule of thumb to remember. in reply to MCOHIO, 02-18-2013 11:12:19   It also depends on where the bolt came from. I have saw tests where a chinese grade 8 didn't have the strength of an American grade 5. I will probably put grade 8 fine thread in mine, just because I use mine heavily and I wont have to worry about the fine thread loosening up as easily while using it. A previous owner have put 2 course thread bolts with nylon lock nuts in the front and I was always having to tighten them back up. The other 2 original bolts in the front axle never gave any problems. My 175 is the same way, somebody put one course thread bolt in the front axle and the other 3 are original, that one course thread comes loose every now and again. I'm going to replace it also. [Reply]  [No Email]
MCOHIO 02-19-2013 06:42:59 71.72.158.81 Report to Moderator	Re: A good rule of thumb to remember. in reply to Jason S., 02-19-2013 05:54:17   Jason, I agree about the chinese stuff. I tend to look for "ROCKFORD" hardware, it's just a name I trust. I would have gone with the fine thread but would have had to use Fastenal or some other industrial supply place and have found that they are very "proud" of what they sell. I had trouble before using Grade 8 bolts before in a wrong situation. They would break from side load. I stepped back to Grade 5 with no problems. My dad ran into situations like that many times as a heavy truck mechanic. I was pleased to see that RURAL KING carries fine thread hardware and are new to my area. I will give them a shot as I need hardware for my tractors. [Reply]  [No Email]
Jason S. 02-19-2013 08:26:34 192.43.65.245 Report to Moderator	Re: A good rule of thumb to remember. in reply to MCOHIO, 02-19-2013 06:42:59   I've been lucky here. My friend that owns a bolt supply buys only american made stuff. Bolts, drill bits,tap&dies,etc. My understanding is that grade 8 is kind of like a file, they are hard but will break before bending, whereas grade 5 will bend.The TSC here redid their store and don't carry bolts and stuff like they used to. I wish we did have a good farm supply store. [Reply]  [No Email]