Generator Adjustment Bolt

[James K.]

I recently got "dinged" for having the wrong generator adjustment bolt (bolt that holds the generator to the bracket to tighten the fan belt). I had a "WB" bolt in place, but the Judging Guide does not list a "WB" as a correct bolt head. All the parts order places (Paragon, Corvette Central, etc.) list a "WB" head as the correct replacement.

Anyone out there know for sure that a "WB" bolt head is not correct for the generator adjustment application?

[Jack H.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

This one's interesting! Typically, you'll see 'disclaimer' language in the descriptive text on fastener headmarks. Text like, "known original head marks include...".

But, the '61-62 JG cites a list of headmarks for this fastener without 'wiggle room'. Earlier C1 JG books don't bother to call out headmarks for the same fastener. The text is:

"...The generator attaches to the adjusting brace via a bolt (usually no head marking at all, or with 'UR', 'TR', 'E' or 'T' on head), lockwasher and flatwasher (no nut is used)."

Typically, fasteners were supplied to GM by MANY qualified sources (as the descriptive text indicates) and most judges simply look for the headmark to be that from a known approved/supplier. From another perspective, suppliers came and went AND what was in supply inventory bins resulted from local plant purchasing decision(s). So, the situation was 'fluid' with respect to time and assy point.

Since the JG calls out a plain bolt as being common, it seems that's the easiest solution here, regardless of what the actual truth is...

[James K.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

Thanks Jack, I agree there is an easy answer to the issue (have already changed bolts), but the inconsistancy didn't seem right.

[Mike E.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

Many times a reproduction source will try to sell their wares to as broad a market as possible, irregardless of exactly which years it might be correct for.
Many sell 1/4x20 bolts with TR heads as correct for fastening the female hood latches to the firewall, and they imply application all the way through 62. I've been studying original 62's since 1974 and have never seen that head on any original 62. But they sell them for that application!
A similar situation exists for the 62 generator to bracket bolt. If we, the manual team, collectively agree that we have never seen it, we will not include it, despite what a catalog wants to sell. Plain and simple!!

[Dan D.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

FYI, I don't know about 62, but 57 (and I assume all older) are 5/16-24. My 57 are 9/16" long and they are TR head. Don't know if mine are original, but they appear to be and all 8 are all identical. -Dan-

[Mike E.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

You're right on size--point was more about the head marking than the size. I should have been more careful than just off the top of my head.
Mike

FYI, I don't know about 62, but 57 (and I assume all older) are 5/16-24. My 57 are 9/16" long and they are TR head. Don't know if mine are original, but they appear to be and all 8 are all identical. -Dan-

[Dan D.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

Hi Mike, Yea, I commented because I have recently been battling the hood fit and latches in my 57. I could expand on the latches, but this is not my thread, and it has sidestepped from the original generator hold down bolt issue as well.
I think I am going to start a new post describing my experiences with the latches and see if others have any similar stories. -Dan-

[Scott K.]

Re: Generator Adjustment Bolt

I recently got "dinged" for having the wrong generator adjustment bolt (bolt that holds the generator to the bracket to tighten the fan belt). I had a "WB" bolt in place, but the Judging Guide does not list a "WB" as a correct bolt head. All the parts order places (Paragon, Corvette Central, etc.) list a "WB" head as the correct replacement.

Anyone out there know for sure that a "WB" bolt head is not correct for the generator adjustment application?

James -

We will ship you an adjustment bolt that is unmarked with a turned finish on top. Please send your mailing address to me in a private message.