TOPIC: Need opinion fr. you engineer/mech. fastner types.

So in getting the bracket ready for the club mariner, I ordered all new bolts, washers, etc, incl. 18", x1/2" galvanized bolts (couldn't find any in stainless). When I was getting everything together for tomorrow for the big moment, I noticed that although the length and thread are fine, the bolt itself is slightly smaller than the old one, about a 1/16th".

I'm guessing that technology over the last 55 years has improved, and so it is probably fine, but figured I'd see if anyone had opinions. I've included a pic, although not very good...having trouble with camera focus.

3 of the 4 old ones are fine and can re-use if needed. The bolt did have specs, but nothing to compare it with as far as the old bolts are concerned.

OK, Thanks folks!

Hard to say without knowing what it's for and what kind of loads are on it.

You can actually make what you need using stainless rod. I am pretty certain Jamestown Distributors sells it.

And....here's the link:

www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=1998&familyName=Stainless+Steel+Solid+Rod

Thanks for the replies gents.

Brian - I'm afraid you give me a bit more credit than I deserve in both my ability to work the stainless, as well as my tool stash. Unfortunately I have no way to thread the pipe, which is too bad as it would be a great solution!

Ike, this is going on a 1958 glasspar club mariner. here is link to the borchures section:

www.fiberglassics.com/library/File:Glassparb60005.jpg

The original setup was rated for 120HP at the time, and this boat came with dual Johnson 35 hp motors. I'll be putting on two 1962 40HP gales, so a little heavier and a little more power.

All this said, I am, as usual, running out of time for my various projects before winter so i went ahead and mounted it onto the boat Sunday as i really need the space (see new thread). However, I'm not putting the motors on till spring, so I am still very open to changing out if it turns out to be a good idea. .

So, as usual gents, any comments appreciated!