Finding unconventional bolt sizes

[chinkostu]

We all know that bolt diameter and head size are not exclusive, especially when it comes to cars, but should it take more than 5 minutes to find one? specifically, its the ABS bolt as i bloody snapped mine didn't I!

i'm looking for an m6 bolt but with a 13mm head. all i can find (and all i have to hand) have the usual 10mm head so the "face" of the bolt needs to be fatter to hold the sensor, and washers seem like a bit of a kludge.

the other thing is trying to replicate the double sidedness of the bolt (thread on each end) as i could resecure the heatshield properly then.

[CitroJim]

Easily snapped, that one...

It's one instance where I'll fire up the lathe and make one from suitable donors...

maybe a local engineering firm or local model maker could make you one?

[chinkostu]

Might have to do that, didnt even think to get one made up. Shame i havent got a lathe!

It snapped on the way in funnily enough. Think i stretched it and didnt quite have the abs sensor flush to the hub as it felt loose until it snapped (did a wheel bolt the same many years ago!)

[CitroJim]

A lathe is a very handy tool when dealing with older cars Stu, it's not a tool you use every day or every week even but well worth investing in one...

I'd be lost without mine...

It falls into the same category as my hydraulic press, engine crane, welder and the like...

[Sloppysod]

I Had a Honda Goldwing and number of years back and found it difficult getting the 'special' bolts, until I found these people http://www.jrwebster.co.uk/index.php?id=580, it is worth an ask, Failing that OEM
Good luck,

[chinkostu]

Not available anymore from citroen, ill give those guys a nudge thanks

[Chris570]

Surely a normal m6 bolt would do with a washer? the ABS sensor get stuck in pretty tight anyway and I'd bet good money it doesn't even need it.

[CitroJim]

Surely a normal m6 bolt would do with a washer? the ABS sensor get stuck in pretty tight anyway and I'd bet good money it doesn't even need it.

It's a double-ended thing on some models Chris, with a second thread to hold the heat-shield on... Not all are the same...

[Stickyfinger]

That bolt is why god invented a Dremel

[Chris570]

Surely a normal m6 bolt would do with a washer? the ABS sensor get stuck in pretty tight anyway and I'd bet good money it doesn't even need it.

It's a double-ended thing on some models Chris, with a second thread to hold the heat-shield on... Not all are the same...

Ohhh you're quite right

some m6 stud and 2 nuts then

[CitroJim]

some m6 stud and 2 nuts then

That would do perfectly!

[chinkostu]

Surely a normal m6 bolt would do with a washer? the ABS sensor get stuck in pretty tight anyway and I'd bet good money it doesn't even need it.

It's a double-ended thing on some models Chris, with a second thread to hold the heat-shield on... Not all are the same...

Ohhh you're quite right

some m6 stud and 2 nuts then

Thats probably what i'll end up doing! Even locktite the stud in and just undo the nuts for replacement!

[Chris570]

I'd not loctite the stud in because you'll want to get it out at some point. I find gently wiggling the ABS sensor gets them out when they are stuck in and you won't be able to do that if you have a fixed stud. Your choice of course

[Stickyfinger]

If you do anything, a wax/soft sealant is best so you can get it out later, it seals it so reduces rust that makes it stick in.

[chinkostu]

Both very good points thankyou!