Using thread locker on spacers

[bensanders]

I wanted to post a little excerpt from my build thread to open a discussion on the issue:


"Sidenote: I purchased thread locker but I don't plan on using it. As an engineer by trade, it just doesn't make sense to me to use it. What especially confuses me is the spidertrax recommendation of applying thread locker then checking torque after some time. Not only are there differences in static/kinematic methods of checking torque but the whole idea seems counter-intuitive. Checking the torque of a fastener held in place with high strength thread locker? Not wrapping my head around that one...
Also, I'd like to be able to easily remove them should I decide to get wheels with different backspacing someday. Somebody please correct me if I am completely wrong"


This comes down to discussing the discrepancy between installation instructions for the All Pro spacers vs. the Spidertrax spacers. As most of you know the Spidertrax instructions call for the use of high strength thread locker while All Pro makes no mention of it.

I'd also like to note that a friend of mine had 1" spacers custom made for his 2000 Tundra by a highly reputable and experienced fabricator/member of another forum. When asked, he stated thread locker was unnecessary.

Any modification like this requires increased maintenance and cautiousness and I have a feeling thread locker isn't needed if you regularly check the spacer lug nuts, perhaps every tire rotation.

Anyways, let the discussion begin!

 

[sonerick]

I remember this issue being brought up a while back, and here are my thoughts:

When you install the aluminum spacers, there will be a certain "break in period" so to speak where the aluminum will ever so slightly deform due to the compressive forces of the lug nuts and whatnot. After the initial 100 miles or so, this deformation is complete and no further deformation will occur. So I think it important to re-check lug nut torque after the first 100 miles. The same is true when installing new aluminum wheels.

What most people do not understand (and you already alluded to this in your post above) is that when checking the torque of the lug nuts, you have to completely loosen the lug and then re-torque to spec due to the differences between static and kinetic friction forces. The use of thread locker makes this difficult and impractical. Furthermore, one of the purposes of tightening lug nuts to a specific torque is to make sure they are tight enough that they will not loosen over time.

So, it is my opinion, that when using aluminum wheel spacers, they should initially be installed using NO thread locker. Lug nuts should be re-torqued after the first 100 miles. After that point, I think thread locker is optional. If you want to use it for peace of mind, go for it. But I agree that it is not necessary, especially if you regularly check the lug nut torque.

 

[martini]

I also do not use thread locker with my spidertrax and have never had a problem. I do check the torque when rotating my tires and I've never had any of them budge. I also have to remove mine to get my tires re-balanced occasionally so not having thread locker makes removing them much easier.

 

[Aquabear]

I didn't put thread locker on.
I didnt answer the poll. Next time ask- "Did you use ___? And why?"
No matter what anyone says if you feel more easy and u know what it is, just use it.
See you on road

 

[Doozi]

I used a product called "Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate". It's meant for applications where torque adjustments might be necessary. It doesn't harden and need to be broken free like Loctite. I installed my Spidertrax about 7500 miles ago and haven't had any issues. I was a little skeptical about running spacers and, in the beginning, they were always on my mind... I checked the torque on them at 250, 500, about 1500, and at about 4000 miles, but now I have no worries. I just check them as PM when I do a tire rotation. For me, it was just piece of mind.

Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate

 

[bensanders]

I didn't put thread locker on.
I didnt answer the poll. Next time ask- "Did you use ___? And why?"

...lol. It's as simple as a poll can get...simply check Yes or No. Come on, guy.

 

[bensanders]

I used a product called "Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate". It's meant for applications where torque adjustments might be necessary.

This is more along the lines of what I was considering. Using the blue thread locker as opposed to the red. Or better yet, the product you just mentioned.

 

[Doozi]

Vibra-Tite is good stuff.

 

[Aquabear]

...lol. It's as simple as a poll can get...simply check Yes or No. Come on, guy.

No way man! Simple?! I know I know lol.... but being on this site long enuff sometimes a simple answer opens up pandoras box and things go BOOM! Then the guys ripping you apart cause the threadlock caused his fallopian tubes to break as he was applying bulkhead remover while on mailbuoy watch!

Boy I need a beer..................this tequila rounds on me bensanders..:cheers:

 

[bensanders]

Boy I need a beer..................this tequila rounds on me bensanders..:cheers:

Fair enough!

I've since put another 300 miles and some minor wheelin' on my spacers. Will hopefully be taking the wheels off and checking things tomorrow. I have a feeling they haven't budged...