Bolt Into Oil Thermostat For Oil Cooler Lines

[tidewater21]

Hello to forum members,

I have a question for you more seasoned mechanics. I just replaced the oil cooler lines on my 1998 V70 XC. When I was removing the 30mm torx screw holding the double U shaped clamp, that holds the two lines into the oil thermostat, the screw would not budge and eventually stripped the torx "teeth". It then became a project-and-a-half getting the screw out to release the lines. I did get it out finally but now I need a new screw to hold that clamp and cooler lines into the thermostat. I purchased a 10MM hex head type bolt from the local hardware store, in one of those many drawers of bolts, nuts, screws etc all harware stores have, along with a lock washer.

It's the same length and thread as the old one of course but my question is: does this bolt/screw need to be of special hardened metal? Or will this hardware store, off the shelf bolt, be strong enough to hold this thing together? There isn't a whole lot of pressure on it I guess but it does get pretty hot/cold. I tightened the bolt snug and tight but did not overtightened to crack or weaken it.

I just want to be sure this bolt doesn't have to be some kind of hardened metal thing and this type of bolt won't fail. Should I search out a hardened metal 10MM bolt to be safe? The hex head is far easier to tighten (and loosen) than the torx head, which because of the angle of approach lends itself to stripping. It's a much easier with the hex head bolt vs the torx screw if you're doing the work.

Thanks very much in advance for your advice.

.

[Ozark Lee]

It should work fine. I would put some anti seize compound on the threads first and just be aware that it will rust.

...Lee

[tidewater21]

Thanks a lot Lee. I did coat the threads with some anti-seize and I'll try to keep the rust at bay with some frequent brush ups with a wire brush and some WD.

As usual the forum is fantastic and because of it my 220,000 mile V70 XC lives on. Thanks again