There are several different types of bolts for your truck, and they all serve the same purpose. Whether you are working with mild steel or Grade 8, fasteners come in a variety of grades that will ensure that your truck is safe to drive. Learn about different types of fasteners and their uses below. The following information will help you choose the right bolts for your needs. Ensure that they meet the grade required for your truck and the type of load that you will be putting them under.

• Grade 5

If you want a truck that is safe and durable, look for Grade 5 truck fasteners. These fasteners are designed to withstand high loads without losing strength. They also have a higher proof strength than lower-grade bolts. The proof of strength is the maximum stress a bolt can sustain without experiencing irreversible damage. The proof strength is also one of the main criteria for choosing which fastener to use. In addition, the higher the grade, the better the bolt will perform.

Grade 5 truck fasteners are made from medium carbon steel and have a minimum tensile strength of 120,000 psi. The strength decreases as the bolt diameter increases. Grade 5 bolts are marked with three radial lines and a Rockwell hardness of C25-34. On the other hand, Grade 8 bolts have a minimum tensile strength of 150,000 psi.

• Grade 8

US Grade 8 fasteners are made from tempered and quenched steel. Their sizes range from 1/4 inch to one and a half inches. The minimum tensile strength of these fasteners is 150,000 psi. The heads of these fasteners are marked with five hash marks. A Grade 8 bolt’s head is somewhere between the Grade 5 and Grade 8 fasteners. Therefore, if you’re looking for a bolt with high strength, this is the one you’re looking for.

• Grade 316

Stainless steel fasteners are usually made of Grade 316, which is a marine-grade material that contains at least 18 percent chromium. Stainless steel is considered to be “stainless” when it has at least 10.5 percent chromium content, but a higher percentage of chromium means enhanced corrosion resistance. Nickel is a crucial element in this material, as it improves corrosion resistance and adds strength to the metal below.

• Titanium

When it comes to truck fasteners, titanium is the metal of choice. The material’s superior strength-to-weight ratio makes it a superior choice for fasteners in many applications. For instance, titanium screws have a nominal tensile strength of 180,000 psi, and they are just over 40 percent lighter than steel fasteners. Additionally, titanium fasteners are highly corrosion-resistant, and this makes them a superior choice for fastening parts in vehicles. 

• U-bolts

Truck fasteners like U-bolts are essential for safety. If they become loose or broken, they can damage a truck’s suspension. In fact, rusting u-bolts can be even more damaging than broken or loose parts in other truck equipment. If you notice any of these signs, you should have your truck checked by a mechanic or fleet technician. 

A U-bolt’s dimensions are determined by its diameter (A) and leg length (B). In addition, the bend type must be specified. U-bolts that have been used before will likely have damaged threads caused by improper installation. Additionally, previously torqued U-bolts will suffer from distorted threads due to deep nuts. The best way to avoid this is to torque a U-bolt just once and never loosen and tighten it again. Because of this, it is difficult to determine the exact torque required.

• Eyebolts

The Truck Collection HD Bars and most T-slot crossbars are compatible with EyeBolts to create instant tie-down points. EyeBolts are secure, strong, and easy to install. They also feature a smart design to make installation a breeze. These fasteners are great for securing your cargo.