UNUSUAL #8 BOLT - NEED FEEDBACK

[kp]

Fellas, Here is an M8 x 40 #8 bolt which is located in the rear fork of the swingarm of an early VIN sandcast. Chris Rushton has asked members to provide comment on this bolt. Can members have a look on their bikes and advise if they have anything like this bolt and where are they located. Chris will add more info shortly. KP

[hondasan]

Seems to be a third type of #8 bolt, the "8" being more offset on the head of the bolt, and being of a size between the large early #8 and later smaller "square" #8 . These were found in the ends of the rear fork, and ignition switch bracket (M8 x 40)in both #302 AND #1120 which seems a little coincidental. Anyone else found these?

Chris R.

[markb]

I checked my bolts from 97 and I have three "offset 8" M8 x 40 bolts.  I'm assuming they came from the chain adjusters and ignition switch bracket too.   But after checking the parts list, I see that M8 x 40 is also used on the center stand and brake caliper (also on the handlebar clamps but those aren't "8" bolts).  I quit looking after I found the three so when I have time I will look to see if there's any more.  I also checked 1553 and the chain adjuster and switch bracket bolts are just "big 8" bolts.

[hondasan]

You are correct, M8 x 40's are used at the centre stand pinch clamps and also for two of the front caliper brackety mounts. Does seem odd that just three of the 7 total M8 x 40's  are this " variation". But they were definately fitted to 2 of my bikes, so back on them they go!

Cheers - Chris

[Steve Swan]

Very interesting !   Chris told me about these "offset 8" bolts a couple years ago, but i never quite understood what he was saying.  I will get out 232 later this winter and study the bolts on it.  The bolts on 232 are the same bolts that came with it when i took ownership and i took care when i removed the bolts to put replace them to their same positions.  Will be very interesting to see what what type of bolts 232 has ! 

ARE WE SAYNG THE "OFFSET 8" BOLT IS AN EARLIER TYPE THAN THE "NON-OFFSET 8" BOLT ?

[markb]

Seems to be earlier and only on the 8 x 40's.