Editing Working with chromed bolts

When working with chromed bolts always use some white lithium grease on the threads to keep them from locking up or binding when tightening.

If your working with chromed bolts I always use a bit of masking tape on my wrench or socket so that I keep the finish scratch free. Just tear a small piece and put it either on the bolt or on the inside of the wrench or socket itself.

I've also heard, along that same line, that putting a piece of plastic, such as part of a zip lock bag, on a newly painted bolt head will save it from damage.

Just a note of caution here....before choosing chromed hardware for your rod, you should read up on hydrogen embrittlement. When using an electrolytic plating process, free hydrogen atoms are introduced into the parent metal. If the part is not baked shortly after being plated, these hydrogen atoms can and will destroy the part. I have read of metal shattering just sitting there on the bench. If you absolutely know who chromed the part and you absolutely know that the part was baked post-plating to remove the free hydrogen atoms from the parent metal, then you should be ok. If you don't absolutely know where the part came from, be very cautious about using it in a stressed atmosphere such as a fastener. Chroming without baking won't make a lot of difference on an oil pan, but it could mean the difference between life and death on a suspension fastener. Just so you know.  

[[Category:Fasteners]]