[DML] Re: Hardware

["David Jacobs (NEC)" <v-davidj@xxxx>]

Dave makes a very good point. Make sure you match up the bolt strength
flexibility etc.

I did check into this. Most of the original bolts/nuts/screws were either
aluminum, zinc, or regular steel. For the zinc and aluminum, the stainless
steel counterparts, I replaced them with, were much stronger. The steel
bolts/screws, I replaced with steel as stainless steel can be more brittle.
Bolts on the struts etc. were in good enough condition that I did not need
to replace them, they just needed to be cleaned a little.

Again, most of the bolts/nuts/screws on the DeLorean can be found at a
hardware store. It's not hard to match the metal/strength/size. Don't
skimp and buy a cheaper bolt/screw etc. And stainless steel isn't always
your best choice. If you are not sure which way to go, ask someone who
works at the store. Chances are they may be able to help you, and point out
the pros and cons of each type of metal etc.

Thanks for the heads up Dave.


Dave

-----Original Message-----
From: Dave Stragand [mailto:dave.stragand@xxxx]
Sent: Saturday, February 19, 2000 9:44 AM
To: v-davidj@xxxx; eGroups Digest
Subject: [DML] Re: Hardware


DANGER WILL ROBINSON! DANGER! DANGER!

You may be able to get lots of your nuts and bolts at local hardware
stores (I do), but remember you ABSOLUTELY MUST replace every piece with
the SAME STRENGTH hardware as the original.

Do not think that all nuts and bolts are the same -- this is common for
new mechanics and hobbyists. If you replace a hardened bolt with a
standard strength one, it may shear even during simple torquing.

Stainless fasteners are NOT usually rated for the same strength as other
steel fasteners, and may have substantially different strength ratings
and other important characteristics (i.e. thermal expansion rates). Use
EXTREME caution when selecting those nuts/bolts.

Oh, and don't over-rate either. I do recall a college materials 
professor mentioning something about a strut cracking off of his Cessna
because the higher strength fasteners were also more brittle, and less
forgiving/absorbing of sudden shock stresses. I assume the same would 
hold true for our winged vehicles. Engineers use a certain strength 
fastener for a reason, you know...

Matching the strength rating is critical. Don't skimp, especially on
suspension components. Your butt will only be 6" off the ground while 
driving. Don't let non-hardened fasteners make it 6' under the ground.

-Dave
http://www.ProjectVixen.com
VIN 5927
(Yes, I hope to have an update soon!)

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