Are you expert in using fastener and bolts? Umm, I think if not completely, then at least 80 % of know-how you’ll have regarding usage of this stuff since a mini tool box is found everywhere. Anyways, we all know that every product has some dos and don’ts, some pros and cons, and few specific tricks and criteria to make an efficient use of it
If you approach any fastener, bolts, and nuts manufacturer even for your project based purpose, even then they will provide you a direction use page that will guide you how to use, and what not to use.
Without any further discussion, let’s directly jump to the dos and don’ts using fasteners;
Tricks / Don’ts of Using Fasteners
- Never use 18 – 8 stainless steel in, or even near the salt water environment. You must be at least 20 miles away while using 18 – 8 stainless. Rather use 316 stainless in a coastal environment
- Only use hot dipped galvanized fasteners with other mating hot dipped galvanized fasteners. In other words, use a carriage bolt that is hot dipped galvanized with a nut that is hot dip galvanized. Never mix them with a finish like zinc. Always use lubricant made of fasteners which is also known as Anti – seize.
- If you’re using a nylon lock nut, always use fastener lube but never a motor oil, wd-40, or soap. These things will harmfully impact the fastener over time.
- Use the correct driver for screw which you’re installing, especially for the Phillips driver screws. Always use the correct size driver as majority of people take the wrong one. Also, avoid using stainless steel with aluminum since it creates a galvanic reaction between two metals. Eventually you’ll start seeing rusting between two materials
- Always use a neoprene washer between them. Doing this, you won’t run into any problem.
- Pre-drill the hardwood. That’s a must while installing a fastener. Specifically a wood screw, a deck screw, and a sheet metal screw into wood that is really important. Otherwise, in hardwood, you risk the situation of cracking or chipping of the wood
- Many people confuse stainless steel either hard or soft metal. Well, it is a soft metal that can be hardened with het treatment. So it’s not always wise to use it for structural applications
- Avoid using coarse fasteners with fine thread fasteners, or with OEM. Why? Because, typically they won’t work together
- Never over-tighten fasteners, dong this can damage the thread and integrity of bolt
- Never get overconfident if you’re experienced doing this work that I am invincible. Protection is your right! Always use safety gear to protect yourself from debris, and sharp edges while working either you cutting glasses, hand gear, body gear, always use guard on the saw
Hope You found it helpful. Good Luck!