Reaper's original riser top clamp cap screws are grungy/rusty, so I am considering replacing them with stainless steel cap screws. The question I have is: will they be strong enough with the 16" apes I run?

Any experience/advice with this is appreciated.

Cheers!

 

I personally think you should get the proper steel with chrome plating there. You just may be surprised what chrome polish will do however.

Stainless is less tensile then even grade 5 and can stick (gaul) in that aluminum.

 

off the shelf hardware store stainless hardware is very close to being grade 2 quality, there may be Stainless stuff out there (better alloy) that is stronger, and if you can find them use them

304 series Stainless comes in just under Grade 5 strength

The issue with stainless is getting torque values without galling the threads.

You can use anti seize but be aware of the difference in torque values for not only the Stainless, but the effect of anti seize on torquing.

Personally I reduce the number 20%

Replace the hardware and dab it with gloss black paint, or try to find good bolts that were chrome plated, again watching out for Chinesium junk hardware

 

Damn! You don’t screw around with your screws do ya? You must know your chit.

 

Thanks for the knowledge. I think I'll just go with new OEM cap screws.

Cheers!