Front Axle / Front Suspension: Leaf spring center bolts

[ChampCouple]

Are the leaf spring center bolts special, or can I use a grade 8 bolt for a '61 Champ? Someone had started to convert the frame to a low rider, and I want to add back in the leaf springs, which I have. But I don't have the center bolts.

[tsenecal]

I haven't bought any for a few years, but they used to be available at parts stores. They will have a round head, with a screw slot in it, available in different lengths.

[52-fan]

I looked at the O'Reilly site and they have a bunch of sizes sourced through Dorman.

[ChampCouple]

Thanks, I should have tried looking them up, didn't realize they were kinda special and searchable.

[acolds]

Made mine from socket head screws easy to find at harware stores

[SouthBendShaker]

Made mine from socket head screws easy to find at hardware stores

Same. They don't strip as easy as the slotted heads either.

[Mike Van Veghten]

The factories (ALL of'em) made those leaf spring center fasteners hard/tough for a reason.
I would NOT...make them from hardware store, slotted head screws..! Removed fingers could result..!
Allen head fasteners, IF made in the USA only (NO offshore crap copies). Otherwise, use actual leaf spring center fasteners. Again, your fingers / hands may thank you for it.

Mike

[SouthBendShaker]

I would NOT...make them from hardware store, slotted head screws..!

Good thing no one suggested that.

Black alloy steel socket head screws found in most any hardware store are rated at 180,000psi - stronger than a grade 8 hex head (150,000psi). More than enough to hold a spring pack together. I do recommend USA made on ALL hardware however, easy enough to check the box.

[acolds]

I agree I never use Made outside US exception is German made . When you get hardware if the box not stamp made in USA someone else can buy. When you go online most companies list source of bolts USA cost more