Suspension Hardware: Nuts and Bolts

[CliffsBlueCamaro]

Hello everyone!

So, I'm in the middle of the first suspension rebuild my 67 Camaro has ever undergone, and there is no way I can in good conscience put it all back together with 45 year old nuts and bolts...

So what do you guys use to replace the nuts and bolts during a suspension rebuild?

Do most aftermarket control arms come with all the replacement hardware?

Would *really* heavy duty stuff from the hardware store cut it?

Any advice or guidance anyone can offer will be greatly appreciated!

[exwestracer]

The "best" way to do it would be to measure out all the grip lengths (distance across the brackets plus washers) and get the correct spec AN bolts. The idea is to have all brackets riding on teh smooth shank of the bolt, not the threads.

You can use hardware store bolts, but to get them long enough, you will have a ton of thread hanging out the end. Also, most sizes drop into 1/2" length increments when you get out to the sizes you'll need for the suspension; so it's tougher to get the exact shank lengths. AN bolts come in 1/16" increments. Of course, you are going to pay about 5X more than you would for grade 8...

[Bryce]

I use Alloy steel SHCS. They are stronger than grade 8. I buy them to the closest shank length and cut off the excess threads. I use a hacksaw and cutting fluid. This reduce the heat put back into the fastener. I have the luxury of picking out my fasteners due to the fact I have a part time job in a hardware store.

But AN bolts would be a great choice.

[Proforged]

Hello everyone!

So, I'm in the middle of the first suspension rebuild my 67 Camaro has ever undergone, and there is no way I can in good conscience put it all back together with 45 year old nuts and bolts...

So what do you guys use to replace the nuts and bolts during a suspension rebuild?

Do most aftermarket control arms come with all the replacement hardware?

Would *really* heavy duty stuff from the hardware store cut it?

Any advice or guidance anyone can offer will be greatly appreciated!

Cliff,

For any of our vehicles, we go with high strength stainless from Totally Stainless. It's "grade 8" equivalent, a bit pricey, but makes a really nice finishing touch.

We're a Totally Stainless dealer - the complete Front Suspension Kit includes everything you need except castle nuts. Control arm hardware, shock bolts, end links, sway bar mounting hardware, etc. It is $214.00 plus $10 or so shipping.

Give us a call if you're interested!

[JChilders]

x2 on the totally stainless.

[BBPanel]

Cliff,

For any of our vehicles, we go with high strength stainless from Totally Stainless. It's "grade 8" equivalent, a bit pricey, but makes a really nice finishing touch.

We're a Totally Stainless dealer - the complete Front Suspension Kit includes everything you need except castle nuts. Control arm hardware, shock bolts, end links, sway bar mounting hardware, etc. It is $214.00 plus $10 or so shipping.

Give us a call if you're interested!
Website lists 55 Vette but nothing for a 55 Belair? Do you know if TS has 55 Belair bolt kit?

[Proforged]

Website lists 55 Vette but nothing for a 55 Belair? Do you know if TS has 55 Belair bolt kit?

Yes - for a 6-point style front suspension kit, it's $239 + shipping, and for a 12-point style front suspension kit, it's $248 + shipping.