Re-Using Strut Hardware/Fasteners? Topic is solved

Post by **Eddystone** » 05 Aug 2021, 20:33

I've done a few struts (maybe three) and sometimes have wondered why some of the hardware and fasteners need to be changed. Below is a list of the things I'm talking about. Genuine Volvo parts are pretty pricey for this stuff totalling about $100 for both struts. Do you replace all this stuff or reuse it. (I know that there are some nuts and bolts that should always be changed...)

Post by **scot850** » 05 Aug 2021, 22:11

'I'm sure others may have different opinions, but I re-use all the nuts and bolts except the bottom bolt and nut for the control arm and ball-joint. If the bolts are badly rusted to the point where the threads are damaged or there are signs of damage to it I would replace it. Nuts, if they are the type that have the flat on one side that wider than the other end and little serrations on them, I will reuse unless the hex is damage or again it is really rusted.

Volvo nuts and bolts are stupid expensive. When I pull stuff at PnP I always take all the bolts and nuts as they don't charge for them. I have boxes of bolts.

Neil.

Azik09 · Post by **Azik09** » 06 Aug 2021, 00:39

Bolts checking for stretching, need 2 same (cylinder head bolts on the photos as an example).
Bolts at 1st pic can be re-used, at 2nd pic are for garden trolley only.

Post by **Chuck W** » 06 Aug 2021, 05:15

I reuse them all, unless damaged. These aren't any kind of TTY bolts.

Any of the lock nuts get replaced if they are "loose", but a bit of thread locker usually deals with any of that.

Haven't had any fail or loosen.

Post by **abscate** » 06 Aug 2021, 05:22

I did use hardware store m8 bolt and nut once on a P80 ball joint retainer and it did not end well. It rusted like crap amd had to be ground off. More of a statement on crappy quality than the application

The BUFO hardware from Volvo is expensive stuff, I try to price anchor it to safety so I feel crappy about cheap hardware rather than the reverse.

I keep a list of stuff near by desk to make up my weekly FCP order to $50 economy shipping , too

Strut mount, control arm, caliper carrier bolts…all reused in good or better condition

Post by **erikv11** » 06 Aug 2021, 11:06

I re-use all of those suspension fasteners unless they are in obviously bad shape.