Hello all,

I'm looking for a domestic source of top-quality engine bolts to mount up a 3W75 to a half inch thick firewall in a warbird. I'm queasy about the usual stuff of doubtful quality and origin (think East) you usually see in the typical hardware store. That stuff is ok for a deck in the yard, but not my application. Any suggestions as to a source? And, does anyone out there have any experience with safety wiring bolts like on full-scalers?

Thanks in advance,

Phil

look around at hardware and lumber yards. look especially for something from National. most of their stuff is made in rock falls, il. i deliver there and watch stuff being made. i think that you'll need grade8 bolts. Ace carries National's stuff- at least the one in my town does.

I think you search for special bolts is way overkill. You'll never be able to break the cheapest 10/24 bolt that you can find. But if you want extra special bolts, you can buy stainless steel from Mcmaster Carr.com

Yeah, grade 8 is way overkill. Whatever your hardware store has will work and won't break. That being said, I usually buy stainless steel cap screws or button head screws, but thats because they look nice!

I agree with Diablo - your usual grade 5 bolt is fine.
However, if you really want good stuff go for
aircraft quality hardware. Call your local airport
fixed base operator's service operation and find
out where they get it - or look on the net. I used
to use it on my race cars but that was a while
ago so I don't have a current source.

As for safety wiring - you again should look at
aircraft or race car practice. They use a safety
wire pliers which spins the wire - something like
a "yankee screwdriver". You also need hardware with
holes in the bolt heads to take the wire. Again
aircraft stuff has these available.

But again - don't think you really need all this stuff
Bruce

I too agree that Grade 5 hardware bolts would probably do... but why take a chance if you can obtain better hardware without much effort. Personally, I prefer aircraft hardware. You know it won't fail on you. Regarding safety wiring, I did a Google search and quickly came up with these 2 links:

http://www.whizwheels.com/Tips/safetywiring.html - a very good link.

http://www.ultralightnews.com/pilots...safetywire.htm

BTW, you really don't need special pliers. A pair of duckbill or slipjoint pliers to give it the final twists will do, and needlenose pliers to pigtail it. Lockwire pliers are only usefull for long runs - I usually can do it just as neat by hand if the run isn't too long. Hope this helps.

I buy all my bolts from MicroFasteners and have never gotten a flawed or substandard bolt. I buy them by the 100 or more quantity.

Great information- thank you all!
Phil