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I've very much into the idea of replacing bolts/nuts/washers with stainless steel where possible, but well aware of the potential problems for critical areas. 316 Stainless is weaker than Class 8.8 and certainly weaker than Class 10.9 (Grade 8 equivalent). You should never replace critical components with a weaker grade. Stainless also has a propensity for galvanic corrosion so DO NOT place in the aluminum suspension components. That said, Bumax is one of the makers of high-grade high moly stainless steels, that are stronger than 304/316. Bumax 88 is the equivalent of class 8.8 and Bumax 109 the equivalent of class 10.9 (you get the picture). These metals offer equal corrosion protection vs. 316 but with the tensile strength of class 8.8/10.9. Furthermore, they're treated/hardened to resist galling. PERFECT.
These are usually classified among the other high grade stainless as unobtanium for most people. Mcmaster car seems to have a limited selection. I'm excited because I get to replace 8 bolts with these!
The #2 and #3 crossmembers each utilize 4 M8x1.25x 20mm bolts with oversized washers. They are class 8 (have an 8 on the head). I sheared off several of these as my undercarriage has some rust. I still have to drill out the studs. But if you need to replace your crossmembers, you should definitely spend the money and upgrade! You need 4 of each for each crossmember, or 8 total (must buy in packs of 5)
Links for the parts are below: https://www.mcmaster.com/93810A467/ https://www.mcmaster.com/94316A520/
Pictures, in case anyone else is interested. I also wanted to note that the condition of the existing bolt threads is AFTER I used a thread repair tool on it. Hopefully my new braces come in soon so these can get used to install.
Caution: you may not share my nerdism for this stuff.
11-23-2020, 07:32 PM
