Question about bolts...

[J-S-Q]

Is it ok to use stainless steel bolts in 'low load' areas of a heli (700LE)? I want to use longer bolts/lock nuts for the muffler and for the tail control arm and I only currently have stainless steel ones. I read somewhere that hardened steel bolts should always be used but suspect this was referring more to places like the rotor head etc. So... is stainless steel ok in the locations I've mentioned or could the bolts fail due to vibration etc?

[Jamin_00]

I've used SS bolts with no issues over the frame, tail block in to the frame in fact pretty much everywhere with no issues.

This was on a 700n but then I dont fly hard

[jiberjaber]

No, don't use them on your muffler as just when you think they are tight they will let go. Could cost you your engine.

[J-S-Q]

No, don't use them on your muffler as just when you think they are tight they will let go. Could cost you your engine.

Do you mean 'let go' as in snap?

[jiberjaber]

Do you mean 'let go' as in snap?

Yes, as in snap Usually at the head end.

[ddracer]

I use a small spring washer under the head of the SS bolt in the exhaust. Tighten until the washer is flat. Never had any problems at all, I check them after every session along with everything else.

I do drill out the threads from the pipe and use nylocks, don't know if this makes a difference?

[jiberjaber]

Untill the threads go on the muffler, the best bet is to fit it and then start the engine up. When it has got to temperature idleing, tighten the bolts again. Again, use HT bolts, not stainless bolts.

If the threads have gone, use aerolock nuts, not Nyloc Special Nuts nuts

[J-S-Q]

Anyone know where I can buy Aerolock nuts online?

[Toolman]

Yes Modelfixings:-
Special Nuts

I have found though that they should only be used once or twice, they loose thier hold if you take them on & off too much.

Tim.

Sorry Jason, see you have linked there allready.

[J-S-Q]

Ok cheers everyone -got some HT bolts and Aerotight nuts ordered from Model Fixings.