Will Conical Toothed Washers Flatten When Bolt is Tightened

Question:

Should conical tooth washer be flat when bolt is tightened down?

asked by: Terry S

Expert Reply:

Generally speaking, when the hitch bolts are tightened the conical toothed washers will compress to some degree, but usually not completely. The higher the bolt torque rating, the flatter the washer will be.The flatness of the washer is not really the indicator of the proper bolt tightness. Tightening the bolt to the proper torque rating using a torque wrench as mentioned in the instructions is the most important consideration.

expert reply by: Mike L