Posted By: west
I need a bolt size - 07/13/13 04:06 AM
I have a 72 scamp/duster and I need the size for the bolts that hold the front bumper mounts to the frame.
Posted By: Pacnorthcuda
Re: I need a bolt size - 07/13/13 04:11 AM
Not positive but before the experts post I'm gonna say 7/16
Posted By: kentj340
Re: I need a bolt size - 07/13/13 05:05 AM
My 69 A body uses 1/2-13 x 2-3/4 with captive conical 1-1/4 washer, maker's mark "38". Similar to part B-10924 on page 114 except longer at this link:
http://www.amkproducts.com/Catalog_PDF.htm
Posted By: kentj340
Re: I need a bolt size - 07/13/13 06:15 AM
The AMK catalog is saying B and E bodies used 1/2-13, and my A uses 1/2-13 also, so I'd say try any 1/2-13 bolt and see if it works in your car thread-wise.
IIRC the A body needs a longer bolt than B and E because both the inboard and outboard sides of the box frame are threaded. If both are threaded on your car, check to see if the grip is slightly under 2-3/4. If so and the 1/2-13 is correct, then you need four grade 5.1 (or grade 5 will do) hex head machine screws with conical washers x 2-3/4. Use automotive grade 5 or 5.1, not hardware store grade 2. Length 2-1/2 might work if the grip including the washer is a few threads less than 2-1/2.
Posted By: west
Re: I need a bolt size - 07/13/13 07:21 AM
Thanks man. Top notch info.
Posted By: kentj340
Re: I need a bolt size - 07/14/13 03:20 AM
If your 1/2-13 female threads in the frame of your car are dirty, rusty, or damaged by weld spatter or whatever, you can file a vee in the first few threads of your bolts so that they are cutting like a tap. Make the side of the vee about 90 degrees to tangent in the clockwise turning direction for best cutting. Since the bolt is not nearly as hard as a tap, it won't cut as well as a tap, but usually well enough to get by. The original bolts had "paint cutter lead points" which do the same thing, as shown in the AMK catalog photos of the B and E body bumper arm bolts.