Shear Pins or Grade 5 Bolts??

[Bookm]

I was going to run out and buy Grade 5 bolts for my 70's Argo axles and hubs, but Am now considering using Shear Pins instead (as per original Argo assembly)

Any thoughts?

Sean

[evil8x8]

Broken bolts are harder to remove than broken shear pins. I use shear pins on my 1985 Argo 8x8.

[Jeff t-boss]

If I'm not mistaken, shear pins are usually made out of either aluminum or magnesium. Both are alot lighter than steel (obviousely) and that is the concept behind the pin. Confining your stress/failure point to the pin instaed of a component. I'd stick with the shear pins. They're alot cheaper than the components they protect. If you are shearing pins often, you have a more serious problem elsewhere, (other than the pin itself) that needs to be looked into deeper.

[Bookm]

Yah, I think I'll stick with shear pins. I feel the broken axle resulted from a previous owner using bolts instead of pins. I have had no trouble punching broken pins out, but have come across bolts that have seized themselves within the axle hole. The bolts are too hard to drill out and torching was necessary.

Can the pins be purchased at a local equipment store like Princess Auto or are they Argo Dealer exclusive?

Thanks,
All axles in last night (using various goops in various places). Gonna fill with water and check for leaks tonight (fingers crossed)
Sean

[Jeff t-boss]

Can the pins be purchased at a local equipment store like Princess Auto or are they Argo Dealer exclusive?

You should be able to pick them up at the equipment store. Some of the bigger hardware stores that stock a good assortment of nuts and bolts might have them........Good luck on the maiden voyage. Don't forget your rubber duck!

[Bookm]

LOL, actually not a maiden voyage yet. Just the frame and axles installed in the lower shell. I'm gonna run the hose in the lower shell and fill 6" or so and check for leaks while it's still up on the saw-horses. I figure it will be easier to resolve any issues before I continue with assembly. Will be a good time to test my sump-pump too.

[Bookm]

Leak Testing:

[Mike]

Oh my! That was HILARIOUS! I almost didn't watch far enough but I'm glad that I did.

[6X6]

NICE! So is that your Argo's Mascot? What's his name?

[riotwarrior]

yummy....just bout nuff to eat! don't even have to drop a line just drain the tub

Are those good for bbq'n?

Should be able to seal those leaks easily enough I suspect. Good idea to do the leak test!

[Bookm]

Doh... Just ONE more day and I'd be out in the mud! But NNNOOOO... The weekend just HAD to end!!