Just something that I learned the hard way some time ago. They are very problematic, they suffer from what is called "galling", which is basically easily damaged threads, that easily lock up, especially when used in combination of both stainless steel bolts and nuts. Once you torque down a stainless bolt and nut, chances are the threads are locked up, and you won't be able to undo them. They should only be used in marine environments, or where the fasteners are exposed to a lot of salt.

Also, they are not as strong as grade 8 fasteners. I personally always try to use grade 8 fasteners, or class 10.9, which is the metric equivalent. These are the same bolts that are used in automotive suspensions, they are extremely durable, and come with various coatings that are corrosion resistant. I prefer zinc yellow chromate coating for maximum resistance.

Oh boy...this is not valid advice. It depends what you are using them for.

If you use a stainless screw/bolt with a stainless nut, use anti-seize.  Stainless fasteners in aluminum are not a problem, and stainless fasteners in steel (not stainless) are not a problem.  Stainless on stainless will gall the threads and more than likely seize if used dry.

You are opening a huge can of worms if you want to talk strength of different materials!

TheSneeze wrote on 03/09/22 at 08:07:58:


Stainless steel into aluminum is not a problem, aluminum is too soft to damage stainless threads. However, stainless into steel often causes problems as well - torque it hard, and threads often lock up.

Stainless into stainless is almost always a problem, the finer the thread, the worse it gets. If you must use stainless, torque them slowly, and use anti seize compound.

och wrote on 03/09/22 at 08:30:28:


If you need a grade 8, then you must use a grade 8 or equivalent. I wouldn't hesitate to use SS on items like covers (plastic covers, engine covers - things that are torqued to in-lbs) and brackets.

My rule: if I can see the fastener, and sheer or tension strength isn't critical, then SS is a good choice.

For years I have been using stainless button head screws for nearly all the places that hold on fenders, turn signals, side covers, etc.  For the wheels, brakes, engine mounts, etc. I use the stock fasteners so that I have the correct strength fastener.

I agree that dry stainless on stainless can be a problem - but thread locker prevents the fastener from galling and also prevents them from coming loose!

My heart yet soars,that just makes me happy..
Just take the whole sheet, Dave.

Life is soooo complicated,... now this.