Is there a better idea than Torx?
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,221
Likes: 4
From: Annemasse (border of Geneva-Switzerland) facing Mt-Blanc.
Metal threads need lubrication or a protective coating because either they oxidize/swell then grip or they bond metal to metal.
In the better world stainless steel threads are silver plated when assembled with steel or aluminum counter parts, plain steel threads get a phosphoric (H3PO4) treatment, aluminum threads are anodized then Teflon coated.
FYI: the standard galvanic corrosion protection applied to steel screws should resist 150 hours in saline environments but this does not integrate the temperature changes of our engine.
HD parts are simply thoroughly degreased prior to assembly so all screws not assembled with Loctite are bound to grip.
As a remedy I apply Molykote grease everywhere a thread sealant is not needed.
In the better world stainless steel threads are silver plated when assembled with steel or aluminum counter parts, plain steel threads get a phosphoric (H3PO4) treatment, aluminum threads are anodized then Teflon coated.
FYI: the standard galvanic corrosion protection applied to steel screws should resist 150 hours in saline environments but this does not integrate the temperature changes of our engine.
HD parts are simply thoroughly degreased prior to assembly so all screws not assembled with Loctite are bound to grip.
As a remedy I apply Molykote grease everywhere a thread sealant is not needed.
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 127
Likes: 2
From: VA
I switch to Allen head screws as the Torx get loose. Many chrome replacement screws are available at my local stealer, believe it or not, and at reasonable prices compared to the local Tru Value hardware store.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 10,216
Likes: 224
From: Glendale AZ
Me too, are you the only one working on your bike or has your dealership been using the wrong bit on them? Either way, change em to something else, lots of options out there.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 3,524
Likes: 34
From: Maryland
I went to Allen's from Lowes.
Part of the problem is the bits. Even if you go with the best the splines twist. Seen Snap-On do it.
In theory Torx should be the best. Likely is for woodworking. Like cabinetry for example. Problaby also best for the factory. In the real world with metal though I'll take Allen head every time.
Part of the problem is the bits. Even if you go with the best the splines twist. Seen Snap-On do it.
In theory Torx should be the best. Likely is for woodworking. Like cabinetry for example. Problaby also best for the factory. In the real world with metal though I'll take Allen head every time.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 15
From: Pacific Northwest
Like said, you can change to SS or even internal hex but whatever you choose don't use that torque wrench on them anymore. For me, no Loctite and a touch past snug does the job just fine.
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Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 564
Likes: 9
From: Texas gulf coast
I used a MAC T27 and have for all 8 changes. The zinc fastener is crap. Thanks to all for the replies. Looks like I'll take a harder look at the sites that were recommended.
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Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 564
Likes: 9
From: Texas gulf coast
I do own the manual and it states 84 - 108 in-lbs. I torque to 90 in-lbs.
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 115
Likes: 1
From: Georgia
Get good tools to work with and replace them when worn and usually you will have no problems with the fasteners themselves for years. When you do, change them, they are not expensive like say,synthetic oil,or batteries or tires.