One of these things is not like the other

[drscott]

Here are two pictures of the 4 bolts that are in the flange on the u-joint connecting the front drive shaft to the front differential. Obviously one is not right - besides looking funny it is not as long as the other 3 bolts and does not stick out the back like the other 3 do. Where is the best place to buy one of the correct bolts and is there any issue with just replacing the incorrect one? Does anyone know the correct torque?

[Rogan]

I see no reason to cause issues with just replacing the one odd-ball bolt.

[Wild and Free]

If you can get those torx head cap bolts out, throw them as far over the fence as possible and get yourself some normal hex head cap bolts. It will save you a big headache in the future. If they are the same size get some from a second gen which the odd one looks like it came from.:smart:How much shorter is it? If it is just a thread or two from sticking out or flush don't worry about it.

[mr.mindless]

Ditto to W&F!Don't replace the one odd one, replace the THREE odd ones! Torx have no place in an application like that, it's asking for broken torx drivers in the future when things are rusty and tough to deal with.

[Rogan]

Sorry, I didn't see the first picture, only the 2nd one. I thought the torx was the odd one..

DEFINITELY replace all of those torx bolts. IMO, that's one of the most worthless fasteners ever..

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Sorry, I didn't see the first picture, only the 2nd one. I thought the torx was the odd one..

DEFINITELY replace all of those torx bolts. IMO, that's one of the most worthless fasteners ever..

[drscott]

The non-torx bolt is about 5mm too short to engage all the threads while the 3 torx bolts stick out about 5mm past the last thread (the torx are 35mm and the non-torx is 25mm). So I think I will replace all four. Just need to find 4 M8x1.25x35mm high grade bolts. A guy on one of the other diesel forums recommended the cap head screws that use a 6mm allen wrench. They look nice but so far I have only found the 35mm length at Granger and they only come in packs of 100 - Home Depot has 30mm and 40mm.

[Wild and Free]

Not sure where in Texas you are But Get some from Inland truck parts and service, they specialize in this sort of thing I am sure they are 10.9 grade and they shoul have the shoulder on the head too. http://www.inlandtruck.com/locations/locations.php#allITP

[drscott]

Thanks for that web link. There is one of those 9 miles from my house - practically on the way home from work.

[drscott]

Inland truck parts did not have the screw so eventually went to BoltMax.com and ordered them - 25 for $2.12 plus shipping. Got all four changed and have plenty of spares.