quote Originally posted by 2.5: Doesnt that bring them too tight? I mean that anti seize is slick stuff.

It depends both on the condition of the threads and the specific properties of the anti-seize you're using. See my later post in this thread.

quote Originally posted by Marvin McInnis: In practice, I usually reduce the torque applied by ~25% from the "clean and dry" value when I apply Never-Seez to threads, and I always use a torque wrench.

[This message has been edited by Marvin McInnis (edited 12-03-2013).]

"I also use Neverseize on trailer ball threads before I put them on or you can never get those suckers back off, Even with a torch."


Yea, why is that. I have a bunch of hitch mounts that have different size balls on them. I wanted to just put the 3 common size balls in a bag in my motorhome. I ended up putting 3 complete hitch mounts in because they wont come off, even with a pipe on the wrench handle.

quote Originally posted by Marvin McInnis: On clean, dry threads it can be accurate within +/- 30% ... but we all know that wheel studs are almost never clean. Unfortunately, torque is the only convenient metric we have available, but it's good enough in practice. It's still better and more repeatable than the "armstrong" method.

Wow, 30% is a large margin of possible error. Is ...would it be closer with a lubed wheel stud ? I ask because I lube mine with regular grease gun grease (but not the surface contact area, which I hope locks in the torque).
I just noticed your later posts, involving less torque needed. I still wonder if the mating surface locks the torque or if the threads do.

quote Originally posted by cliffw: Wow, 30% is a large margin of possible error. Is ...would it be closer with a lubed wheel stud ?

Maybe, but not by much. From Sandia National Laboratories (for NASA): Guideline for Bolted Joint Design and Analysis (2008):



In the real world, thread condition (i.e. cleanliness and damage status) probably has more effect than anything else. Don't worry, though. The published standard torque values for wheel studs will be "good enough" in virtually all circumstances.

From the same source, here is a table of approximate "Nut Factors" (i.e. Torque Coefficients/K-Factors) for various bolt materials, finishes, and lubricants:

[This message has been edited by Marvin McInnis (edited 12-06-2013).]