Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

Replacing the top ball joint on my Spyder chassis with Spyder suspension arms. The through bolts are grade 5. I assume provided by Spyder.

I wish to replace them but I only have grade 8 in that size. Would they be suitable or too brittle?

Recommended torque? Same as factory set up?
Received COVID vaccines. Hope all Lotus Forum members are well.
Thanks.

Bob

Did some research. Grade 8 has greater strength in shear and tension. than grade 5. The difference is the plastic range during elongation until failure. Grade 8 shorter plastic range. But occurs at higher tension loads. If that were the only parameter grade 8 would be superior. Grade 5 is the choice as it is less susceptible to stress corrosion. So it is advised to use the original bolt grade especially in corrosive environments such as suspension.

I will use the same grade 5 for replacement.

Bob