Build it safe
From Crankshaft Coalition Wiki
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For the benefit of the newbies, or a reminder to the "memory challenged", there are many basic safety issues that should always be observed, whether you build it from the ground up, or finish someone elses project. | For the benefit of the newbies, or a reminder to the "memory challenged", there are many basic safety issues that should always be observed, whether you build it from the ground up, or finish someone elses project. | ||
| − | These are common things | + | These are common things you'll see. |
Cotter pins. | Cotter pins. | ||
Ball joints, tie rods, spindle nuts and other key components have drilled threads and castle nuts. ALWAYS use new pins. I've seen nails, tie wire?? proper pins cost 25 cents, splurge. | Ball joints, tie rods, spindle nuts and other key components have drilled threads and castle nuts. ALWAYS use new pins. I've seen nails, tie wire?? proper pins cost 25 cents, splurge. | ||
| + | [If you are buying an unfinished project, '''check every thing''' designed to control or stop the car.] | ||
Flex fans. | Flex fans. | ||
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Brake lines. | Brake lines. | ||
Unless they are factory, or you did them yourself, check em. Aluminum lines need a Double Flare. | Unless they are factory, or you did them yourself, check em. Aluminum lines need a Double Flare. | ||
| − | Surprising how many people don't know that. If you don't know how to tell, get someone who does. Especially check any newly installed pieces, like around proportioning valves. | + | Surprising how many people don't know that. If you don't know how to tell, get someone who does. Especially check any newly installed pieces, like around proportioning valves. |
Seat belt anchors. | Seat belt anchors. | ||
| − | Frame members are best, but if it goes through sheet metal, use at least a 3 inch grade 8 washer. Use grade 8 bolts and nuts. Never use the seat anchors, and don't use them for comparison. You | + | Frame members are best, but if it only goes through sheet metal, use at least a 3 inch grade 8 washer. Use grade 8 bolts and nuts. Never use the seat anchors, and don't use them for comparison. You weigh much more than the seat, so the belt anchors must be 4 or 5 times stronger than the seat anchors. |
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| + | Torque specs. | ||
| + | They exist for virtually every bolt. Use em. Too light and they may come loose. Too heavy and it may stretch the threads and break later. Very common on over torqued wheel studs. | ||
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| + | Axle and wheel bearings. | ||
| + | Jack the car up and check each wheel for looseness, clicking noises, binding and grinding. | ||
| + | It's amazing what you can't hear with the engine running. | ||
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| + | Enjoy a safe, happy ride. | ||
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