Microlighters

I am busy replacing most nuts and bolts. I removed the profile tube holder bolt yesterday. It is mildsteel from the looks of it and was badly rusted. I replaced it with a stainless steel bolt, ss washer and ss niloc... total cost R9.90. When last did you inspect this bolt?

Just a question - did you also think of replacing the bolt holding the bracket on

That is the same bolt. It runs straight through the bracket.

Nacho wrote:I am busy replacing most nuts and bolts. I removed the profile tube holder bolt yesterday. It is mildsteel from the looks of it and was badly rusted. I replaced it with a stainless steel bolt, ss washer and ss niloc... total cost R9.90. When last did you inspect this bolt?

Beware of stainless steel bolts:
1) they have terrible fatigue characteristics, and should never be used for critical structural parts.
2) stainless steel corrodes aluminium (galvanic corrosion).

Should you not rather use an AN bolt?
They're a lot more expensive, but I'd consider it an investment in safety.

D2O wrote:Should you not rather use an AN bolt?
They're a lot more expensive, but I'd consider it an investment in safety.

Always be careful substituting components - you do not know what the designer intended when choosing a specific part. I can not see the head of the bolt, but most cap screws are grade 12.9. This has a significantly higher shear strength than the same size AN bolt. So switching to AN could turn out to be a big mistake.

Rather replace with exactly the same spec as the manufacturer used, or confirm with the manufacturer before substituting any part.

Speaking to the manufacturer now. Will keep you posted on the reply.

Fully agreed with Justin. From Microcrafts Africa (Solo Wings) you can buy a full bolt replacement kit at a very reasonable price.

Replace with exactly the same fastener & nut & washer as the manufacturer recomends and your plane will be in spec and safe. Also, tighten to the manufacturers tourque setting, never overtighten.

i replace mine with a 8',8 bolt from solow wings

Agree with 8.8, but beware of s/s, as mentioned, it is not known for its ability to tolerate vibration

Correct Bolt is a HT (High Tensile) with a Hex head.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultimate_tensile_strength

This is the correct cap screw. 12.9 HT

This screw plus Niloc = R3.90

Only use cap screw. 12.9 High tensile
Cadmium plated !

golddty wrote:It sounds really good, too wonderful!

Lyk my hier kom weer 'n spammer...

Back to the bolt.

Het enige iemand dalk n idée van, watter persentasie van AUW, dra hierdie bout ?