Anyone know the size and thread type for the thermostat bolts? (I am not good with thread pitch type and size)
also I will go to the parts store and see if they have a bunch of copper washers that are used on brake lines to try and get actual part number to post once i find bolts to size them up to.
I suggest you take the old bolts with you to the hardware store to match them to new ones (both threads and length).
The '28 thermostat housing in Lurch's engine took 3/8-16 (3/8 inch diameter and 16 threads per inch) bolts. I bought brass new ones to help them not to corrode.
I also used 1/4-20 brass bolts inside the housing to hold the thermostat bracket down. Here's that part of the rebuild story: Resurrecting a '28 4 banger - thermostat
Cheers, Dean
Last edited by Rustoholic; 12/02/2012:08 PM. Reason: added some info
Dean 'Rustoholic' Meltz old and ugly is beautiful!
Thanks, mine was a 7/16" UNC 14TPI X 2 3/4" length. The ardware stores did not have it as they all skiped from 2 1/2' length to 3" and the online did also (just googeling) so i stoped at a machine shop and they gave me 2 new bolts.
the machinest did mention the 2 3/4' ones are hard to find. i went to the auto parts store and got a Dorman brand copper brake hose washer to fit over the bolt.
Finding 7/16" hardware of any length is difficult. As far as the odd lengths used on some of the old cars a lot of time chasing can be saved by getting longer lengths and threading as necessary. Standard capscrews are threaded two and a half times the diameter. Investing in a good quality tap and die set will pay for itself many times over.
Another invaluable resource for a lot of odd ball parts and pieces is McMaster-Carr, I hate to think how much money I've spent with them over the last couple years. For instance, they have stainless steel 7/16" UNC 14TPI X 2 3/4" bolts off the shelf, items typically arrive at your door in a day or two:
