Topic: Chrome vs S/Steel Engine Cover Bolts

[mick7504]

I was wondering what the opinions were on these.
There seems to be varying views either way with Stainless or Chrome.
I noted that Ken at Cyclex mentions that he doesn't like his engines looking like the kitchen sink  using stainless screws, although he does have chromed screw kits available.
Mick

[Markcb750]

I have found the chromed bolts to be a lower quality because the thickness of the chrome impacts the thread & wrench negatively.

[Old Scrambler]

+1 with Mark on the poor fit for chrome finishes. I just bought a set of stainless screws with allen heads for a project. On original restorations I use original cap-screws. The stainless heads are noticably larger.

[Retro Rocket]

Does anyone know where to get anodized engine cover bolts.? I am after gold anodized bolts for the majority of the engine and black anodized bolts for the tappet cover.

Mick

[Markcb750]

Anodizing is a process for aluminum, I do not think this type of color can be developed on steel & stainless steel based bolts.


McMaster-Carr used to have some anodized aluminum bolts.

[Gorms]

Chrome bolts just look too shiney to me.  The SS bolts have a nicer, more natural shine to them and look much better I think.

[Retro Rocket]

Anodizing is a process for aluminum, I do not think this type of color can be developed on steel & stainless steel based bolts.


McMaster-Carr used to have some anodized aluminum bolts.

Sorry guys, i should have said aluminum bolts, i have seen them on bikes before but haven't been able to source any here..

Mick

[Old Scrambler]

Mick.........you could get the originals or any new steel refinished with yellow zinc. They would match the spoke nipples.

[wardenerd]

i put stainless steel on mine to get rid of those black looking screws and MAINLY to make it easy to open the thing up when it eventually breaks down.

[ttr400]

Check out pro bolt in the UK, they also have US distributors. All the stainless,aluminium,Ti bolts, nuts etc in a range of colours. They also have Stainless fasteners that are coloured.

Kevin

[Retro Rocket]

Check out pro bolt in the UK, they also have US distributors. All the stainless,aluminium,Ti bolts, nuts etc in a range of colours. They also have Stainless fasteners that are coloured.

Kevin

Thanks Kevin, they have an Aussie distributor as well, and do kits for the 750....

Mick

[Gregorymoto]

I did not read all the reply i'm sure this was covered.
stainless is the way to go. They don't rust and if you use a little anti seize on the threads you will never have issue getting them out unless you over torque.

Putting Steel into Alum even if you use anti seize can bite you in the but giving enough time.

[Retro Rocket]

I have used aluminum bolts before on my bikes with no trouble at all....If i recall there is a special lube that you put on the aluminum bolts to hinder electrolysis...

Mick

[Gregorymoto]

Yep its called anti seize , you should use it on all bolts.