ORIGINAL BOLTS VS. MODERN BOLTS

The judging standards make mention of the differences between the modern nuts and bolts and the originals used by Ford. These photos clearly show those differences. (Thanks to Vince Falter and Marco Tahtaras.)

Here's Vince's description of the Photos:

The first pic shows a comparison of modern and original hex bolts which is typical for many of the bolts on a Model A. The original bolts have a plain unmarked head which is thicker than a comparable modern bolt. The original has a reduced shank diameter between the top of threads and the nominal diameter, thus making the threads appear bigger OD than the shank (they are due to the thread rolling operation). Most modern hardware store bolts do not have this reduced shank diameter. Also, most modern bolts tend to run the threads up much higher on the bolt to make them more universally adaptable to any application. Original bolts generally do not have any excessive bolt length or thread length than the application requires. The second pic shows the same nominal shank diameter, reduced shank diameters, and rolled threads found on original engine studs. Also shown are a couple of original fine thread dome head bolts, similar to timing cover bolts, but fine thread and used elsewhere. The short one is a 7/16-20 x 1-7/16 and is used in rear bumper bracket joints.

Here's a set of body bolts removed from a June 1930 Sports coupe.
Photo supplied by Marco Tahtaras.

Page designed by Jim Mason July, 2007