swapping bolts

[geekay]

hi - is there a reason why I wouldn't swap a black 'japanned" finish flanged button head with a zinc plated hex headed bolt

(other than the fact that the zinc plated bolt is bright silver and the japanned one is black, of course)

Its for mounting the luggage rack on the rear-side of the bike - in removing the rack, the allen socket on the flanged bolt has become quite damaged (probably by my ageing allen keys - which will be replaced also) - the only locally available bolt is a zin plated hex head with a washer - think it'll be OK?

[Juvecu]

I don't see any issues with it, the black plating (think it's anodising actually) is there to prevent corrosion, the zinc does the same thing.

[2112]

It'll be fine, just pop a blob of grease on it so it comes out OK next time  

[greywolf]

I'd rather use stainless steel than zinc plated. If replacing a flange head bolt with another type, include a washer.

[geekay]

hi folks - thanks for feedback.

Greywolf - why the preference for stainless? - is it just a preference, or is there a reason why I "shouldn't" use the zinc plated one?

thanks,
Graham

[greywolf]

Plated or coated means a surface scratch from a tool can start the rust process. SS is corrosion resistant in entirety. Also, there are two kinds of zinc coatings, electroplated and hot dipped galvanized.  The more attractive plated fasteners are not nearly as weather resistant.

[putbinoot]

A little more info with regard to using stainless bolts.
http://www.stainlessautomotivefastening ... page&id=11