Lockwiring Tracking fin bolts...concept/idea.

[Liquidmx]

I recently had a tracking fin come loose on my 00 vlx. After spending the time to actually get to the bolts for it I got the idea (from frustration really): Why dont they (malibu) lockwire the four bolts for the two fins together to prevent them from losening up?

So my question is...has anyone done this or thought of doing it...and....does anyone have a reference for a place that I could buy custom bolts with lockwiring capabilities?

For those unaware of "lockwiring"...it's the act of wrapping a stainless steel (usually) wire through a bolt or several (1 hole drilled in each bolt). By wrapping the bolt with wire it creates a mechanical "lock" that does not allow the bolt to loosen(much).

It seems like a "no brainer" task in this instance since so much freaking effort is required to tighten those bolts back up.

[skibreeze]

Because loctite is easier.

[Pistol Pete]

Makes sense to me if you wanna go one step beyond locktite.

You'd just need to hit Olander. If anyone would be able to get you a bolt that isn't a pure flat head but, would have some sort of meat on top of the taper, it'd be them. You ever been there, Matt?

[Soon2BV]

you can buy bolts in just about any size with a lockwire hole, and there are special tools to make the pulls.

http://www.mcmaster....-screws/=iv79rg

http://www.mcmaster....-pliers/=iv7axg

Edited August 16, 2012 by Soon2BV

[REW]

Any aviation supply company will have the plyers, wire and bolts avaliable.

Edited August 16, 2012 by REW

[tvano]

Because loctite is easier.

iirc the tracking fin bolts just spin into fiberglass (no nut). true?

if so, will loctite function as intended between the bolt and the 'glass?

[jesutton3]

Motorcycle and offroad stores also have lock wire tools.

A lot of offroad (ATV and motocross) use the wire really attach the grips to the bars.

Also a lot of road racing organisations require things like brakes and oil plugs to be wired.

[Liquidmx]

Cool, thanks for the input guys. After hemming over it for a few days I went ahead and used locktite...however I may try and order some tapered bolts that I can drill for lockwiring at a later time (if it ever happens again or this winter...if I feel like tinkering more). Thanks for the link Pete, never been there.