1959 judging issue

[Gary L.]

Had a judge at nationals note that the tie rod to drag link sleeve bolts were too long and should be "tr"" designation. The bolts do need to be 1/4 shorter, but these are "ur" designated bolts. Does anyone have correct bolts designation? They should be grade 5 fine thread 5/16 bolts with lock nuts the best i can tell. Not sure if he meant "ur", which paragon shows for this application, or should they be "tr" designation. This will be a simple fix soon as can obtain correct ones.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Gary,

I will give you a free ride to the top.

I can not tell you anything much about 1959s -- BUT I can tell you that almost never is there only one head mark applicable to a specific position on a Corvette. As you know the head mark indicated not only the grade of the fastener, but also the supplier. For what seems like a common bolt like this, I would expect several head marks might be appropriate. Hopefully someone with an intimate knowledge of the 1959 chassis will be able to help.

Meantime enjoy the ride.

[William D.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Gary, currently doing frame on restoration on C-1. Am original owner and some what an accomplished mechanic. Have an original tie rod sleeve bolt in my hand. This bolt is actually 1-1/8 " long with an L mark on head. We have replacements from Zip and they are 1-1/4" long with UR head mark. Corvette Central indicates a TR head mark, but just checked their web pic, it is UR head mark. Ahhh, the repro market is great. Obviously, I'm using whats available.

[Mike M.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

both of my 57's had "L" mfgr logo on these bolts. mike

[Gary C.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Gary,

Richard Brodeur who posts here IIRC did an inventory of '59 bolt head markings.

As Terry said most applications might have used more than 1 bolt manufacturer (head marking).

Most of the original tie rod adjustment bolts I've seen had L head markings.

The vendors seem to follow the "general rule" that suspension bolts head marks were typically TR with some UR thrown in.

The 56-7 Judging Manual 5th edition revision team spent a lot of time trying to compile the different bolt head marks and where used.

JMTCW,

Gary
....

[Gary L.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Nothing in 58-59 judging manual about trademarks or length. 1 1/8 inches looks to be the correct. I have the "ur" trademard that are 1 1/4 long. Both trademark and length are in question.

[Bob M.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Gary,

I have TR bolts on my 60, they look like they have never been replaced. Also, look like they are in the 1 1/8" range.

Bob

[Gary L.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

Are they cadium plated or dark like gun metal grey?

[Bob M.]

Re: 1959 judging issue

I can't say for sure because of the rust issue. I wire brushed the tie rods, fastners and put a coat of clear lacquer over everything after I put the inspection marks on.