Fastener Fundamentals

Study Notes

Cap screws are the most commonly used threaded fasteners on vehicles.
Studs are short rods with threads on both ends, used for fastening parts together.
The threads on fasteners must match those in the casting or nut and can be measured in fractions of an inch or metric units.
Bolts are identified by their diameter and length, not the size of the head or wrench used.
Graded bolts are stronger than nongraded bolts and have a higher tensile strength.
Nuts used on cap screws usually have the same hex size as the cap screw head.
Locking nuts, jam nuts, and castellated nuts are used to prevent nuts and bolts from loosening.
Taps and dies are used to cut threads on rods or in holes for fasteners.
Sheet metal screws are used in unthreaded holes and can easily strip out threads if used repeatedly.
Washers are used to provide an even clamping load and prevent accidental loosening of fasteners.

Different types of fasteners include bolts, nuts, screws, washers, snap rings, pins, and rivets.
Lock washers use tension to prevent fasteners from loosening, but should not be used on soft metals like aluminum.
Snap rings are used to attach parts without threaded fasteners and require snap ring pliers for installation.
Plastic Christmas tree clips are used to hold interior door panels and trim pieces in place.
Cotter pins and other types of pins are used to hold together shafts and linkages.
Rivets are used to retain components that do not require routine removal and are installed with a rivet gun.
Left-handed threads are occasionally found on engine assemblies and are used to fasten parts to rotating assemblies that turn counterclockwise.
Penetrating oil can be used to break up rust and corrosion on fasteners.
Proper tightening of fasteners is critical for proper clamping force and should be done with a torque wrench.
Thread repair inserts, like helical inserts, can be used to replace damaged threaded holes and are often stronger than the original threads.
Threaded inserts are steel wall pieces with inner and outer threads.
They come in three categories: self-tapping, solid-bushing, and key-locking.
Self-tapping inserts cut their own way into a casting.
To install a self-tapping insert, drill out the damaged threads, select the proper insert and mandrel, thread the insert onto the mandrel, and drive it into the hole.
Solid-bushing inserts require running a tap into the hole.
Some solid-bushing inserts use a machine thread, while others require a special tap.
Threaded inserts replace part of the surrounding casting and require drilling.
The inner thread of the insert is sized to fit the original fastener of the hole to be repaired.
The outer thread design varies.
After installation, the finished thread is ready for use immediately.

Description

Test your knowledge of fasteners with this quiz! From bolts to washers to rivets, this quiz covers a variety of fastener types and their uses. Learn about graded bolts, locking nuts, and the importance of proper tightening. Plus, discover different types of threaded inserts and how they can be used to replace damaged holes. Whether you're an experienced mechanic or just starting to learn about automotive repair, this quiz is a great way to test your knowledge of fasteners. So, get ready to