Reusing U bolts.

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

I've always been under the asumption that you shouldn't re use U bolts 'cause they stretch when you tighten them down. Am I right or wrong? Also shims Aluminum = bad, steel = good right? Just wanting to get things straight before I start ordering some parts.

Rev Den · Jul 12, 2007

Replace the U-bolts.

Use steel shims.

Rev

XJ_ranger · Jul 12, 2007

I replace u-bolts when doing the first lift on a vehicle and every time I change out leaf packs...

However, when I unbolted my rear axle to drain it properly after changing the fluid, I just re-used the u-bolts...

Starboard M · Jul 12, 2007

XJ_ranger said:
I replace u-bolts when doing the first lift on a vehicle and every time I change out leaf packs...

However, when I unbolted my rear axle to drain it properly after changing the fluid, I just re-used the u-bolts...

You dont have to take the d35 out to drain the fluid....:shhh:

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

Thanks Rev.

Now an opinion. Do you think it would be safe to reuse the old ones for a few weeks? I have a set of springs to put in, and need to measure for the shims, but I need the ability to drive it (at least back, and forth to work) while waiting on the shims. Hopefully it would only be a few days.

BRIANHO13 · Jul 12, 2007

I think you could reuse them on the street only, but don't flog it, and make sure you replace them.

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

BRIANHO13 said:
I think you could reuse them on the street only, but don't flog it, and make sure you replace them.

Well thats the plan. I know there not expencive, but I though I might slide those new to me springs under it tonight, and I don't have a set of U bolt laying around.

BRIANHO13 · Jul 12, 2007

Just an FYI if you have a place that makes springs in your neck of the woods you can get them to bend new ubolts cheaper than you can get them at your local parts store. At leat that is the way it is here.

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

You know. I don't really know if there is, or not. Lima is so over run with thugs with thumpers, and dirt bag hags that I doubt it.

Rev Den · Jul 12, 2007

I have on occasion reused u-bolts, never had a failure, but it is NOT a good idea and I do not reccomend it.

Does that help?

Rev

racer32 · Jul 12, 2007

Just for the sake of discussion, whats the difference between tightening up a set of u-bolts and say a control arm bolt, track bar bolt or even lug nuts? Dont they all stretch?

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

All but the lugs I would be planning on replacing. As far as lugs they will break, but 90% of the time if they do you only loose one, maybe two, and out of a set of five would at least not leave you stranded, or cause an catastrophic failure. It would be a good idea to replace them when ever you have to service a wheel though.

SeansBlueXJ · Jul 12, 2007

BRIANHO13 said:
Just an FYI if you have a place that makes springs in your neck of the woods you can get them to bend new ubolts cheaper than you can get them at your local parts store. At leat that is the way it is here.

X2 on that and you can usually get them to make them from wider stock too. i had mine made as wide as the axle would allow (actually had to file the plate a bit to not mash the threads) they were too long however and took the grinder to em after i was done. but being stronger bolts i will re use these when i change my packs out.

TNT · Jul 12, 2007

I say replace them if they are stock diameter. I wouldn't feel bad reusing my 5/8" diameter ones a time or two.

JJacobs · Jul 12, 2007

They can be reused with no issue as long as the threads are in good shape. Steel shims are preferable, aluminum will last for a little while. On the other hand aluminum blocks are a huge no-no.

HaleYes · Jul 12, 2007

BRIANHO13 said:
Just an FYI if you have a place that makes springs in your neck of the woods you can get them to bend new ubolts cheaper than you can get them at your local parts store. At leat that is the way it is here.

I checked into that when I did my 8.8. It was more spenzive to have them made here. I bought mine at Rural King a local farm store. They are 5/8". Got all four for just under $30. The spring shop wanted closer to $50.
Just sharing my experiences, YRMV.

Hale

XJCreeper · Jul 12, 2007

JJacobs said:
They can be reused with no issue as long as the threads are in good shape. Steel shims are preferable, aluminum will last for a little while. On the other hand aluminum blocks are a huge no-no.

X2. If the threads are good my experience is they can be reused. I've been buying the 5/8" ones from BDS and they plenty tough for the price. The zinc coating makes the threads last for at least a few disassembly/reassemblies. Here's some BDS links:

Ubolts
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_ubolts.php
Shims
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_shims.php
Centerpins
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_centerpins.php
Main
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/accessories.php

If the threads, nuts, or washers lookm worn just get a new set.

Good luck and stick with the steel shims!

scoobyxj · Jul 12, 2007

XJCreeper said:
X2. If the threads are good my experience is they can be reused. I've been buying the 5/8" ones from BDS and they plenty tough for the price. The zinc coating makes the threads last for at least a few disassembly/reassemblies. Here's some BDS links:

Ubolts
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_ubolts.php
Shims
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_shims.php
Centerpins
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/acc_centerpins.php
Main
http://www.bds-suspension.com/products/accessories.php

If the threads, nuts, or washers lookm worn just get a new set.

Good luck and stick with the steel shims!

Hey thanks. I hadn't really even done any looking around, but now I don't even have to. I have been really thinking over the BDS 4.5' lift for a while so that will fit right in.

akennedy99 · Jul 12, 2007

Why is this so bad to re-use them? what is the creep for them?

jeeperjohn · Jul 12, 2007

Most quality bolts when torqued properly, can be reused many times with no issues. The problem is you may not know what backyard mechanic may have gorilla torqued the bolts and exceeded the factory spec thereby weakening the bolt. Of course if you put the new bolts in yourself and properly torqued them, then you should have no worries.

Reusing U bolts.

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