Issues with Stainless Fasteners

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Mar 22, 2015 | 02:38 PM

the warden

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Joined: Sep 2011

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From: Sherwood Park AB Canada

Issues with Stainless Fasteners

I am about to install a polished Grade 8 stainless engine bolt kit. I know that you need to be careful about thread galling when using stainless bolts in aluminum engine parts, making the bolts difficult, or even impossible, to remove later. I will be using anti-seize or lock-tite, depending on the application, when I install the new SS fasteners and adjusting the TQ values recommended for the use of SS and anti-seize/lock-tite. For those of you who have installed polished SS fasteners, have you had any issues with thread corrosion or galling.

Mar 22, 2015 | 08:49 PM

Lakerat

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From: Cookson, Ok

Nope, just make sure the threads are clean before installing.

Mar 22, 2015 | 09:25 PM

Keithhu

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From: SE Michigan

Ok, so - primary cover, using stainless bolts - is it anti-sieze or loctite?

Mar 22, 2015 | 09:42 PM

trnewman

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Joined: Apr 2010

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From: Odenton, MD

I used anti seize on all engine covers and haven't had any issues in over a year.

Mar 22, 2015 | 11:25 PM

DanDman

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From: Nor Cal

I did some research before installing SS fasteners due to what I heard about galling. I used Blue or Red Loctite with Loctite 7088 primer. Where it was needed I used anti seize with nickel.
I have had Stainless Steel fasteners on my bike for about two years now. The ones removed doing repairs have shown no signs of galling or corrosion. They look good as new.

Mar 23, 2015 | 07:02 AM

Spartanden

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From: Spartan Country, Michigan

it may be that the galvanic reaction between aluminum and steel may not be prevelent with stainless..... i believe that as long as the threads are clean, fasteners are not forced, things should be fine. I replae many of the factory fasteners with stainless when i can. no problems yet!

Mar 23, 2015 | 02:38 PM

103 sedona orange

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Joined: Jan 2011

Posts: 9,850

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From: Sacramento, CA.

I used SS fasteners on my FXR back in the day & had no issues. Yes, the threads must be clean. This is a great kit for rethreading/cleaning. I'm not suggesting you purchase the kit. just showing what I use all the time in the garage. If you use a tap, get a bottom end tap.
Good luck. http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item....roup_ID=675360