Polishing Bolts

Replacement Stainless Bolts/ Polishing

My VS 1400 cylinder cover chrome bolts and washers started to
rust after being removed a few times (excess washing I guess);
(National Cycle) windshield chrome dome nuts started to
rust and break; and slip-on muffler bracket bolts were rusting.
Also, I wanted nice chrome number plate bolts/nuts. Scared off
with the price and delay in shipment of OEM chrome stuff,
I bought 304 s.s. (cheaper than 314) hardware from a local
fastener supplier for a fraction of the cost, got them straight
away and they fit perfectly. Minimal polishing was required
(jeweler’s' rouge on a 3" felt wheel attached to a drill or
modified spindle of a bench grinder brings them up to near
chrome finish in no time. The "DREMEL" is too slow and
polishing wheels are expensive!). No rusting or rust marks,
stronger bolts and nuts and they'll last forever
(if I don't drop the bike). And I always buy a couple of extra
to have on hand. The ss washers are particularly handy for
stopping rust bleeds. I am amazed at the range of hardware
and the price is unbelievably cheap compared to chrome. So
far no one has picked out the difference.
WARNING: Stainless Steel is stronger than OEM mild
steel chrome, so be careful tightening them into alloy casings
observe tightening torques.

I take exception about DREMELS being too *slow* however, as
they spin many times faster than regular drills. However they
lack the power of a drill until you get into like the
Forstner type rigs which have plenty of power.
If you call DREMEL themselves, they will tell you their tool is a
strictly lightweight, hobby type tool...
I should know as I've been through maybe 15 of them.

And BTW, the term *stainless steel* is a misnomer,
as it can rust in certain applications

This Tip came via a CD from Chuck @ The Cafe
Originally submitted by Phillip With the Final
Note from Kevin

If You Attempt Modifications & Ruin Your Motorcycle
It Is Your Problem.
If You Are Not Mechanically Inclined,
Get Help From Someone Who Is

I Am Not Responsible For Use/Misuse Of These Tips & Tricks
Use @ Your Discretion

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