Our classics are at least 25 years young. You need to disassemble the wheels when changing tires, replacing worn tires, brakes and other chassis components. Can wheel bolts withstand such frequent use?
Yes, wheel bolts will, in principle, last a lifetime
But a wheel bolt must not be exposed to strain. Elongation stress means that the bolt is loaded above the elongation limit. And that is never the case. A wheel bolt is designed so that (depending on the manufacturer) it is oversized by a factor of three. A wheel bolt is indeed tightened dozens of times during its lifetime. Tightening does not affect the lifespan. The starting point for the design is that the yield point is not exceeded and therefore no plastic deformation occurs. "
Use torque wrench, and no grease or copper grease
Car manufacturers specify a torque for wheel bolts. How important is it to stick to this? If you use a torque that is too high, the bolt is overloaded and comes above the yield point. Then permanent deformation of the bolt occurs, which seriously weakens it. Is the tightening torque too low? Then there is no prestressing force on the connection. The wheel is then not properly secured. So stick to the specified torque and use a calibrated torque wrench.
Always use a torque wrench to tighten the wheel bolts to the torque specified by the manufacturer.
Sometimes it is necessary to replace wheel bolts, for example if they are corroded. Rust influences the prevalence. This can lead to eating problems or a bolt that does not lie properly against the opposite face. There is then insufficient or even no pre-stressing force. In such a case, replace the bolts. Do not use copper grease or other lubricants when mounting. These products influence the friction. The tightening torque is only reached later by the lubrication, so that you tighten the bolt more tightly than desired. This can overload the bolts.
Oh yes: And see if your classic is about conical or round head bolts…
La durata di un bullone varia da anni intensita d seramento e condizioni climatiche.
Sommato il bullone non dura na vita egg test basano su una durata standart di tenuta d un auttovetura. Varie situazioni climatiche o il corossamento del sale su strade nevate non viene tentuo in considerazione.
La lega con i anni dimunische il rischio d una rottura sotto sforzo è piu alta.
In media dopo i 7 anni sarebbero da cambiarli.