Why you should paint your nuts.

[redbaron]

I have been doing a lot of modifications to my jeep. The process has involved removing many nuts and bolts, all of which have specific torque requirements. Especially tow points, and suspension related fastners.

A practice I have started is once I torqued a nut, bolt or combination I have put a paint line on it. This allows for a quick inspection to make sure the torque is still applied.

We have been traveling for the past 2 days, and every stop I have done a visual inspection of the towbar, and tow attachment plates as well as a normal walk around.

Our last stop was at a truck pull out. We had just finished 6 hours of driving in a steady rain, so I wanted to see if the electrical connections where still good.

As I was walking by, I noticed this on the tow attachment plate.

You will see that 2 of the nuts are no longer lined up. These are not structural, but they do keep the bumper attached to the frame, and so they are very important.

I was able to notice this in the 2 seconds I was walking around. It took longer to get the socket and ratchet out to fix. Once we arrive at our destination I am going to get the loctite unpacked...must have forgotten to use it on these.

Here is how it looks properly torqued

 

[MapNerd]

the title of this post needs to be clarified. I’ve made a real mess over here.

 

[Joe Hogan]

Source for professional grade markers

Markal Security Paint Torque Check-1.7 Oz Tube

Security Check from Markal can be purchased online thru Cross Check Now website along with other torque check products. Large stock of Security Check paints in all colors. Cross Check now offers flat rate shipping at just $7.95.

crosschecknow.com