Threadlocker vs spring washers

[Robin427]

In part of my ongoing saga with my Image wheel, I've partially reassembled it, using new inserts, new bolts (with Loctite 243) and stainless spring washers. Image told me that they don't bother using spring washers because of the Loctite and I've run out of spring washers now.

Do you think it would make much of a difference in not using spring washers on the remaining 9 bolts (out of 35), or should I be patient and let this glorious evening pass by?

[Miket]

Originally Posted by Robin427

In part of my ongoing saga with my Image wheel, I've partially reassembled it, using new inserts, new bolts (with Loctite 243) and stainless spring washers. Image told me that they don't bother using spring washers because of the Loctite and I've run out of spring washers now.

Do you think it would make much of a difference in not using spring washers on the remaining 9 bolts (out of 35), or should I be patient and let this glorious evening pass by?

You could have a problem balancing them if you don't use washers on all the bolts.

I would take Images advice and not use any washers.

[Robin427]

I need to use some washers - the bolts are too long otherwise (same length and strength as the Image ones I removed). I suppose I could double up normal washers - same weight. At least now I know that this wheel has been problematic, I'm likely to keep a closer eye on it

[slogger]

Originally Posted by Robin427

I need to use some washers - the bolts are too long otherwise (same length and strength as the Image ones I removed). I suppose I could double up normal washers - same weight. At least now I know that this wheel has been problematic, I'm likely to keep a closer eye on it

Robin if this wheel is a problem and only this wheel, then bloody replace it. If you are breaking bolts you could be putting your life on the line. Would you fly one of your planes knowing that one of the wheels could fail? I think not!

Stop PI$$ING around and sort it once and for all otherwise your signature could be put under scrutiny.

[shadow]

First dibs on your lathe!

Seriously, I agree with Slogger there Robin!

[Clive]

Originally Posted by slogger

Would you fly one of your planes knowing that one of the wheels could fail?

Please, don't answer that question!

[Robin427]

Originally Posted by slogger

Robin if this wheel is a problem and only this wheel, then bloody replace it. If you are breaking bolts you could be putting your life on the line. Would you fly one of your planes knowing that one of the wheels could fail? I think not!

Stop PI$ around and sort it once and for all otherwise your signature could be put under scrutiny.

The bolts originally broke because they were done up without using a torque wrench and many of them had come loose due to lack of threadlock. The threads were also contaminated with silicone. Now the correct bolts are done up to the correct torque with the correct threadlocker and I'm satisfied that it will hold together. I appreciate your concern (and lathe already in the will...) but it's not as if I've just bodged it back together (like the first time). I understand that this is a critical component, which is why I've taken a lot of care in putting it right - hence the multitude of seemingly inane questions.

Of course I wouldn't fly an aircraft knowing that a component was likely to fail, which is why I took this wheel apart in the first place - to be fair, it had been running for sometime with loose bolts and hadn't failed. When did you last check all of the torque settings on your wheels? People have different levels of skill and comfort - there are some jobs I wouldn't attempt myself as I don't have the proper equipment. For this, I do and I feel more comfortable knowing exactly how it was constructed rather than trusting it to a company whose service has been questionable in the past.

[TINKA]

Originally Posted by Robin427

People have different levels of skill and comfort - there are some jobs I wouldn't attempt myself as I don't have the proper equipment YET. For this, I do and I feel more comfortable knowing exactly how it was constructed rather than trusting it to a company whose service has been questionable in the past.

Just thought I would correct this for you Robin

[Robin427]

Originally Posted by TINKA

Just thought I would correct this for you Robin

Too true...

[slogger]

Originally Posted by Robin427

The bolts originally broke because they were done up without using a torque wrench and many of them had come loose due to lack of threadlock. The threads were also contaminated with silicone. Now the correct bolts are done up to the correct torque with the correct threadlocker and I'm satisfied that it will hold together. I appreciate your concern (and lathe already in the will...) but it's not as if I've just bodged it back together (like the first time). I understand that this is a critical component, which is why I've taken a lot of care in putting it right - hence the multitude of seemingly inane questions.

Of course I wouldn't fly an aircraft knowing that a component was likely to fail, which is why I took this wheel apart in the first place - to be fair, it had been running for sometime with loose bolts and hadn't failed. When did you last check all of the torque settings on your wheels? People have different levels of skill and comfort - there are some jobs I wouldn't attempt myself as I don't have the proper equipment. For this, I do and I feel more comfortable knowing exactly how it was constructed rather than trusting it to a company whose service has been questionable in the past.

Robin mate I understand what you are saying, but have the other three wheels given a problem? I seem to remember the answer was no. Secondly, wasn't this the wheel that you had to change the rim after a mishap? In view of this and the failure after a rim change, I would be suspicious of that wheels integrity. Please don't forget that you are known as the man who was completely in awe over the properties of the thermos flask.

I'm sure you are doing a grand job, but that wheel has a history and I'd be inclined to bin it.