Chrome lower shock bolts?
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,382
Likes: 4
From: Kennewick, WA
Hemi,
Appreciate the well-written and thoughtful discussion on the issues regarding the utilization of chrome fasteners on a bike (or any vehicle), particularly in the more critical areas of assembly. And in support of your argument I've definitely run across my share of low-grade "bling" fasteners that I wouldn't even use on a child's toy. I've learned over time to carefully inspect and test-fit all new fasteners that go on my bike to minimize the chances of pre-mature failure, and I also inspect all critical fasteners periodically to ensure long-term integrity and performance. I'm happy to report that up to now I've had great success, and hoping my "good luck" extends well into the future.
Ride safe.
~
Appreciate the well-written and thoughtful discussion on the issues regarding the utilization of chrome fasteners on a bike (or any vehicle), particularly in the more critical areas of assembly. And in support of your argument I've definitely run across my share of low-grade "bling" fasteners that I wouldn't even use on a child's toy. I've learned over time to carefully inspect and test-fit all new fasteners that go on my bike to minimize the chances of pre-mature failure, and I also inspect all critical fasteners periodically to ensure long-term integrity and performance. I'm happy to report that up to now I've had great success, and hoping my "good luck" extends well into the future.
Ride safe.
~
Despite my dire warnings, there aren't too many critical fasteners on a bike. The axles, steering head tube and swingarm bolts are critical, but you don't bling these out anyway. Shock bolts are very important, too. I'd also hate to break a handlebar riser bolt, but it seems that cheap Chinese cast risers are more likely to snap.
Most of the bling fasteners aren't critical. I can ride a bike with a broken off forward control if I have to, the same goes for most of the pretty chrome specialty fasteners that come with an accessory. It's demise might put you in the limp home mode, but that just adds to your life's list of experiences.
I just had too many of those chrome specialty bolts snap on me, so I learned to chase their threads, just to have them round out on me when tightening.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 6,642
Likes: 48
From: Ogden, UT
This is why I do not use chrome bolts. One good tightening is usually all it takes to look like this.
I prefer SS, but that said, not for something as critical or that takes such a load as the shock lower bolts.
I prefer SS, but that said, not for something as critical or that takes such a load as the shock lower bolts.
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 433
Likes: 3
From: Northern Illinois
DPM advertises theirs as grade 8 and does a lot of automotive fasteners. I have many of them installed with no problems yet.
http://dmpfasteners.com/shop/bolts-76/hex-chrome-90/
http://dmpfasteners.com/shop/bolts-76/hex-chrome-90/
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