Is There a Longer Replacement T Bolt Than the Thule 853-5648

Question:

I am working on options to attach ARB awning bracket to Thule Wingbar Evo. I have ordered various T-bolts from you to design strongest connection. I found your stainless steel t-bolt 853-5648. It is 22mm in length. Do you carry stainless steel t-bolt in longer length? And, do you consider stainless better for strength that standard black steel of all the other ones you carry?

asked by: Brian S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The closest solution I can come up with for a longer bolt than the Thule Replacement Stainless Steel T-Bolt # 853-5648 is going to be the Yakima Replacement T-Bolt with Nut for Yakima Rack and Roll Trailers # Y8880184. This replacement bolt has the same head size and thread pitch, but is 25mm long as opposed to the # 853-5648 which is 22mm long.

When it comes to the difference between stainless steel and standard black steel (high carbon steel), it is not stronger, but it does stand up to corrosion much better than a high carbon steel- which is the benefit of using it. Since your awning isn't extremely heavy, I don't believe there would be any considerable benefit to trying to go a different direction with the bolt construction and would likely end up something that corrodes significantly faster when exposed to the elements.

expert reply by: Erik B