Loose bolts at Drop Bracket

[Shawnmcgr]

I've had a suspension bolt back-out where the suspension bolts to drop brackets. The threads in the aluminum shaft are completely gone. The dealer is recommending either an insert to replace the threads or replacing the aluminum shaft.

I ride fairly hard; how do I make this bullet proof? Is there an after market cromoly shaft available anywhere? I don't like these aluminum threads at such a heavy stress point.

This is my 4th sled and I have never had to worry about suspension bolts backing out like I do on this sled. I've had both sides loosen up; I've got to carry a socket and wrench with me on rides to tighten them up. I've applied loctite to the side that still has threads...maybe that solves it.

Anyways, I'd appreciate hearing from guys that have had this problem and solved it. Should I just replace the aluminum shaft with a new one and loctite both sides or is there an aftermarket steel shaft available?

Thanks, McGreg.

 

[DARKO]

Loctite is your friend forsure.

What prolly happened is the bolt backed out a bit, then ripping down the trail or sidehilling with side pressure on the skid repeatedly and it pulled your threads out. Or, the dude that PDI'd it used a 1/2" impact of full speed lol.

Either way, install a new stock shaft, red loc the ****er in there and you'll set it and forget it.

 

[Thistledoo]

New shaft for sure....I'd use blue ....red can pull out the threads if you ever have to remove it again witch someday you will.

 

[travis]

WOW.Thisledoo Is she ver hot!!!!!

 

[Shawnmcgr]

Thanks Darko and Thistledoo...a new shaft and a bucket of loctite it is. If it lets go again I'll try drilling and tapping to a larger and longer bolt size.

 

[SLY]

Blue loctite will solve your problem. I have seen quite a few loosen up after a couple of rides. Use blue loctite wherever there is aluminum, red is too hard and will tear out the threads when you need to remove it. I use the blue on all suspension, clutches etc and most other bolts that I R&R.........an ounce of prevention