Ford Explorer, Maintaince And Repair Manual

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Threaded retainer sizes are determined using these measurements
Click to enlarge
If you must replace a fastener, whether due to design or damage, you must ALWAYS be sure to use the
proper replacement. In all cases, a retainer of the same design, material and strength should be used. Markings
on the heads of most bolts will help determine the proper strength of the fastener. The same material, thread
and pitch must be selected to assure proper installation and safe operation of the vehicle afterwards.
Thread gauges are available to help measure a bolt or stud's thread. Most automotive and hardware stores
keep gauges available to help you select the proper size. In a pinch, you can use another nut or bolt for a
thread gauge. If the bolt you are replacing is not too badly damaged, you can select a match by finding another
bolt which will thread in its place. If you find a nut which threads properly onto the damaged bolt, then use
that nut to help select the replacement bolt.
WARNING
Be aware that when you find a bolt with damaged threads, you may also find the nut or drilled hole it was
threaded into has also been damaged. If this is the case, you may have to drill and tap the hole, replace the nut
or otherwise repair the threads. NEVER try to force a replacement bolt to fit into the damaged threads.
Torque
Torque is defined as the measurement of resistance to turning or rotating. It tends to twist a body about an axis
of rotation. A common example of this would be tightening a threaded retainer such as a nut, bolt or screw.
Measuring torque is one of the most common ways to help assure that a threaded retainer has been properly
fastened.
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
18 Bolts, Nuts and Other Threaded Retainers