Hardware sources

[Deleted]

I am getting very tired of the local hardware retailers bringing down their inventory and selling only to the lowest common denominator. It is now hard to find slotted round head machine screws. They all have the duel slot that allows phillips and straight. Yuck! Just can't bear to put those on a restoration. Home depot, Lowes, Ace, Jax, etc. I needed some #10 x 5/8" wood screws with a standard slot head. No luck. Of course they no longer sell in 1/8" increments. Now it is 1/4" at best, jumping to 1/2" after 1" in length. Bolt heads are thinner.
I hate to mail order as it slows my work way down. But you can buy a box of whatever for about $8 per 100 when all of the retail stores want $.25 each! I guess I should just stock up!

[scoutpilot]

Stocking up is what I've had to do in many instances. Up until a few years ago there was a small auto parts outfit next town up that carried Dorman. Gone now. Next closest source for me is in Kinston, about three and a half hours away. His prices are pretty high. Have you a Fastenal dealer in your area? Their selection is huge, but some items may have to be ordered. They prefer to sell in bulk to established accounts. They are not exactly set up for retail sales, but a friendly request for a small order and paid for in cash is always welcomed.

[athawk11]

Hey Lew,
Have you tried Mcguckins Hardware in Boulder? A few guys I know swear by the place. I've been in there a time or two, but I wasn't looking for small hardware. I'm not sure, but they may have a selection.

Tim

[Deleted]

I like fastenal the one by my house is great. The guy sold me brass nuts for my exhaust bolts first time I was in there. Great price and they have sold me as a customer.

[Deleted]

Tim,
I use Mcguckins a lot. They have a lot of things like internal/external star lock washers. And slotted round head machine screws. But you pay for the selection. The one thing most places don't have is a length selection in 1/8" increments.

[Haines Garage]

I have saved all bolts removed from donor vehicles. It is my understanding that lock washers are only good once. It is amazing how you can hold an old bolt, and a modern one in your hand and see and feel the difference!

[Deleted]

For the many bolts that really take a load, I buy CAT bolts, buff the headstamp off, zinc plate and they look perfect! The head is the correct height. Trouble is my CAT store is a half hour drive.

[Deleted]

Cat bolts are reasonably priced as well, cat also has the star washers as well, Zeigler Cat here has a catalog with hardware and belts, battery's ect, very handy.

Lee

[athawk11]

Lew,

I found a company that appears to offer the machined, slotted, pan head screws in the coveted 1/8" increments. Prices seem reasonable.

www.tacomascrew.com/Products/Machine-Screws

[Deleted]

Cool. I may have to stock up!