I replaced all visible engine and chassis bolts on my Fat Bob with polished stainless Alloy Boltz kits years ago. No rust or pitting at all over the years.
When replacing the hex bolts, I chased the bolt holes and used carb cleaner, Q-tips and a can of compressed air to dry them, then used a small amount of anti-seize on each stainless bolt.
I seem to remember that the Alloy Boltz kits came with instructions to reduce the torque specs by some percentage when using anti-seize (sorry I'm not at home and don't have the instructions in front of me).
Thanks for the tip. Those are more affordable, but I kind of like the idea of an all inclusive kit so that I don't have to research size and length. That site might come in useful for other things too.
I think replacing the OEM engine fasteners to chrome or polished stainless really gives the engine a finished look and will look sharp on your ride.
One thing to consider is chrome vs. stainless. Some stainless will turn slightly after awhile and can be noticeable if you look closely. I can tell, especially guys that do the chrome lowers and leaving the stainless covers as-is. I went with the chrome on my 1K service, but then I got them pretty much for free with some HD rewards. I'm happy with mine. When I was considering the replacements between AllenBoltz and Diamond Engineering, my dealer recommended Diamond for quality.
They make some nice polished SS bolt kits. Before I found out about them, I had already replaced the engine bolts with the Harley chromed sets, but later on I did go with AlloyBoltz on the brake calipers. Made a nice difference in appearance for sure. That's been a couple of years ago now and they still look new. Also use stainless Speed Bleeders. All of it works together for a nice clean look.
... I kind of like the idea of an all inclusive kit so that I don't have to research size and length ..
Yes sizing is a tough -- until you find the trick. Harley's OEM parts finders, such as is available here http://www.granitestateharleystore.c...80030/02380133, provide exact details of all the fasteners on the bike. I get the info from there.
LC Joe,
Do those bolts have the same shoulder as the HD ones? That's always been an issue finding a polished bolt with shoulders. I tried the Gardner westcot and the caliper started moving back and forth because the bolt was threaded all the way to the head.
As far as chrome bolts go they look good until they rust, and so does the threads, especially the torx or allens, because the plating process in the holes is not as good as the exterior side. Did that on my old Fatboy, and said never again.
They make some nice polished SS bolt kits. Before I found out about them, I had already replaced the engine bolts with the Harley chromed sets, but later on I did go with AlloyBoltz on the brake calipers. Made a nice difference in appearance for sure. That's been a couple of years ago now and they still look new. Also use stainless Speed Bleeders. All of it works together for a nice clean look.
10-13-2015, 03:53 PM
