Topic: Caliper Bolts - thread lock?

[OldSchool_IsCool]

I had the caliper bolts on my front brakes back out (750K4) and tear up my spokes. I did a search of the FAQ, but didn't find the answer to my Q.

Should I thread lock my caliper bolts?  If yes, which thread locker fluid?

[MCRider]

I had the caliper bolts on my front brakes back out (750K4) and tear up my spokes. I did a search of the FAQ, but didn't find the answer to my Q.

Should I thread lock my caliper bolts?  If yes, which thread locker fluid?

IMO thread lock should be used sparingly, in this case not at all. Someday you will want to get those out again. Some anti seize could be considered.

IMO, your problem is that they were simply not tight enough. Your fault or PO?

[OldSchool_IsCool]

My fault. Guess I better take a little more care with the torque wrench. And a little dab of paint too so I can see if they move.

[70CB750]

I just make them real tight, not locktite.

[MCRider]

My fault. Guess I better take a little more care with the torque wrench. And a little dab of paint too so I can see if they move.

Yup, glad there weren't worse problems. I've actually heard of this before. Was it just one, as if it were both I'd think you'd know from the poor braking?

[OldSchool_IsCool]

Yes, coulda been MUCH worse!  I'm glad it didn't lock up the front wheel.  One bolt, but it was enough that my brake handle came all the way back to the grip.

[Shane72]

I had the caliper bolts on my front brakes back out (750K4) and tear up my spokes. I did a search of the FAQ, but didn't find the answer to my Q.

Should I thread lock my caliper bolts?  If yes, which thread locker fluid?

Ordinarily, I would not use any thread locker on these bolts, but since you've had an "exciting" experience with them, there is a good option for you.

Blue Loctite is good for applications where you want to be able to remove the fastener(s) with ordinary hand tools someday.  It requires no heat to remove, but does a very nice job of holding things that are subject to lots of vibration.

Just a bit is all you'll need.

All the best,

Shane

[seanbarney41]

If you want to use Loctite brand there are at least two levels of permanence...red and blue(although I can't remember which is which right now) one is for stuff that doesn't ever need to come apart again, one is only semi-permanent and I think would be ok for your situation. It will come apart, it just takes a bit more torque.  H-D's WILL NOT stay together without the use of these products...but then that doesn't really concern us does it?  Maybe pick up some safety wire pliers...that stuff looks cool too.  ...oops Shane's got it

[MCRider]

Yes, coulda been MUCH worse!  I'm glad it didn't lock up the front wheel.  One bolt, but it was enough that my brake handle came all the way back to the grip.

Wow!   

[johnny]

Don't use loctite on that. This is what you want:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Anywhere-Chelsea-Ventless-Fireplace-Brushed-Stainless-Steel-Wall-Mounted-/380465861955?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5895885543#ht_500wt_1156

[bryanj]

A couple of turns of PTFE tape on the bolt threads will stop it undoing

[ekpent]

Have you had the 750 out yet this summer Bruce ?

[OldSchool_IsCool]

Thanks for the tip, Bryan.

A few laps around the complex is all, Eric. A bit gunshy til I get the caliper stable. Don't wana wreck another rim & set of spokes!!  Gota say tho, she fired right up despite sitting for as long as she did!