stripped seat belt nut threads

billwagnon · 06-27-2002, 05:31 AM

I bought rear seat belts for my 73 and the bolts that came with the belts are too big. The PO gave me two bolts that fit, and I got two more (that should be longer but that's another issue).

When I put the bolts in two of the holes, they turn until almost tight, then pop loose again, so I'm guessing the threads on the seats are stripped out.

How do I rethread these, or can you access them from under the car to put on a nut? Also, what size should the bolts be?

Thanks for the help.

billwagnon · 06-28-2002, 05:44 AM

Todd Simpson · 06-28-2002, 08:12 AM

Bill-I'm *pretty sure* what you need is a 7/16 bolt, 20 threads per inch, yep, they are NOT metric. I found some at a local hardware store, the 20 threads is considered "fine." It may be worth researching what strength you need as well, I have no idea how they're rated.

You can access them from the other side but once you get the right bolts you shouldn't need to.

Todd

billwagnon · 06-28-2002, 08:16 AM

not METRIC?

I thought an '87 Ford Ranger was the only vehicle that mixed size formats!

I think any strength should be okay as it is the back seats and they are only used by small fry.

HarryD · 06-28-2002, 09:29 AM

I would suggest that you install Grade 5or 8 bolts. They are available at any decent hardware store for less than a buck a piece.

Personally, I would not want to see my kid fly out of the seat and when I put my harness in, I sure want to be confident that the car will break before my belt breaks loose.

billwagnon · 06-28-2002, 09:31 AM

I hear you.

I'll look for 5 or 8. Is it stamped on top?

Jim Sims · 06-28-2002, 09:48 AM

Grade five will have three radial dashes on head, grade eight will have five radial dashes on head. I am really surprised to read that these bolts are inch sizes; 7/16-20 UNF is not acommon size. It will be a rare hardware store that will have a selection of these in SAE grade five or eight. You'll likely have to go to a fastener supply store. If it turns out the threads are stripped you do not want to try and retap for this kind of critical application. Better to drill out, use a longer bolt and put a nut, bearing washer and lock washer on the other side. Then periodically check the outside nuts and washers for corrosion. Cheers, Jim

HarryD · 06-28-2002, 12:16 PM

Jim,

I must had a unique hardware store by me. When I was looking for bolts in stall my rear belts, the problem was an embarrasement fo riches. They had SAE 5 and 8 as well as metric 5.5 and 8.8's. I must have spent about 30 minutes looking at all of the bolts to be sure I had the right size.