Hi Phil
I have no "expert" knowledge, though it is common practice in
some mains or conrod bolt situations to replace the bolts/nuts at every
strip down, as the bolts are designed to stretch at the given torque and
thus "lock". It is possible that a stretched bolt if re used and tightened
will not perform as before at the original torque setting, If your bolts are
of this type and new bolts can not be found I guess locktite may be the
answer, though I should think about intended usage, against the risk of
throwing a rod or similar? Just a thought.
Cheers, George.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Phil Roettjer" <Phil.Roettjer@quantum.com>
To: <morgans@autox.team.net>; <vintage-race@autox.team.net>
Sent: Wednesday, December 27, 2000 2:14 PM
Subject: Bearing bolts
> Fellow list members,
> I am currently in the process of doing a winter checkout on my Lotus 6
Ford
> Consul engine. I have removed each main bearing cap to inspect the insert
> and then replaced and re-torqued. My question pertains to the bolts. This
> engine does not use any locking tabs or safety wire to assure that the
bolts
> do not back out. Now in the few engines that I have rebuilt during my time
> with old British cars I have noticed that some use locking tabs that you
> bend down to secure the bolt head (like my MGB), some have used safety
wire
> and some use nothing at all. For some reason I always feel more secure if
> there is something solid there to secure the bolt. Is the torque force
(7.5
> gm meter or about 55 ft lbs) sufficient to assure that they will not
vibrate
> free? Would anyone recommend drilling small holes in the bolt head to
accept
> safety wire? Should Locktite be used on the bolt threads?
>
> All replies appreciated.
> Happy holidays!
> Phil Roettjer
> 53 Lotus 6
> 67 MGB
> 67 Morgan +4
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