Front Axle Bolt

[cojo92]

Is this a regular bolt. What grade would be best for a new one. or is it a special bolt??looks realy worn down. (see Pics) Thanks guys! Mike

:D:D

[RayS]

It is more than likely a grade 5. On the chart it shows you how to identify the grade of the bolt. Just compare the lines on the head of your bolt with the chart.

[cojo92]

Theres actualy no lines on the head of the bolt. could this mean it was a grade 2?

[RayS]

According to the picture a grade 2 has no lines on it.

[cojo92]

yes theres no lines on it but i think maybe ill get an 8 or 5 grade one. thanks for the help ray! mIKE

[ReedS]

Mike, a grade 5 or 8 will be stronger but since they are harder they are more likely to snap. Sometimes harder is not always better. I think that you'll be ok in this application since I don't think your gonna want to hit anything so hard that it will snap that bolt! A grade 2 bolt will bend and stretch long before it snaps, just food for thought.

[Simpleton7016]

I am going to be installing Stevenj's front end support and will be replacing this bolt as well. I will have a loader on her....am I definitely better off with the grade 2?

[cojo92]

yeah erik, after what reed just knocked into my head grade to probly be better with a loader am i not correct?? or maybe a 5 grade. Reed, Thhanks for the food! :D guys i ended up getting this bolt:

New ones on right old is on left

New one has old bushing on it and is tight with minimal play.

Should i file the grade marks odd to make head smooth like original? i was thinking about doing that. ----------------------------------------- Its a grade 8 but i couldnt find a grade 5 in that size and lenght in stock or even on the shelves. Thanks for all the input guys i really apreciate it! ^ Mike

[MikeES]

I would use a grade 2 so the sacrificial part is the easy to replace bolt and not the bushing or other parts. Use a grade 5 or 8 and the other parts become the wear parts.

[Simpleton7016]

well-stated Mike. Thanks!

[cojo92]

no problem

[MPH]

Ya beat me to my point Mike, that bolt is easy and cheap to replace, I'd go with a grade 2.