Shim Install = Minor Fail

Was installing the 3* shims today and things were moving well until....
Reinstalling the U-bolts and they came up short. Never once did I see a mention in my searches of a need for longer bolts. With the torque, the bottom of the bolts came eve with the bottom of the nuts. In my years of aircraft maintenance, I have learned you need at least a couple threads showing to be safe.

So removed the shims, but finished installing the new center bolts with the spacer, that way it will be ready when I get new bolts.

Now... Where to get new bolts? Figure at least 7 to 7.5" would work for this.
Anybody know where to grab a set online? I tries 6 different auto stores and dealers locally and no one has them...so next stop is online.

Thx

 

Yup, already went there with no luck. Also tried Autozone, Advanced Auto Parts, O'Rielly, Dodge dealer and a boat yard that builds up trailers.

Scott

 

I bought mine from a local 4x4 shop.

Still haven't installed them though..I need to get new center pins with a spacer first.

 

I went ahead and installed the new pins/spacer for the future when I find the bolts and put in the shims.

But, ti try something else..I installed another thin washer in the CB and now the takeoff vibs are practically gone. Hardly notice unless you are trying to make it happen or looking hard for it. Still have to run it on the highway to check those speeds..but if this works, won't have to rip it apart again.

Still need to find a place online that sells the correct size U-bolts if I do have to put the shims on.

Scott

 

Toytec has them

 

Thx...hate dealing with Toytec and their OVERPRICED shipping costs.
They would be my last choice.

 

Go to a spring shop, they can make them for you on the spot. They are made out of high tensile steel, and are one time use only. After you remove the tension on them they are only as strong as regular 9/16 ready-rod. Do not ever re-use U-Bolts! Should have looked into this before taking them off.

Also get grade 8, not grade 5 ones and torque to 130 pounds. If you get 8.5 inch ones you can simply cut them after the install.

 

Fastenal has tons of oddly sized bolts. Give them a shot if you have one near you.

 

Aware of the reuse of the bolts...the dealer just put these new ones on during the TSB a couple weeks ago. Will get a new set when I get around to the shims, again.

Thx