Cleaning bolts and nuts for trailer crank downs

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benz

New member
Whats the best way for cleaning the pain in the arse ski crank downs on the trailer?

I have done the wire brush to bolts but the nuts in the trailer to seem to just as corroded. Applied plenty of grease but still very hard to crank. BFH doesn't seem like the right solution.

Thanks for any advice.
 
C

cuzzinolaf

Active member
I bought a R&R enclosed trailer from a friend who used bolts instead of the provided crank downs and haven't had a problem. He'll probably chime in here eventually as to what material they are and why he did this - I do know it had something to do with the two different metals bonding and causing the problems you're having now. I use a ratchet and it is a lot easier than the twisting the crank downs in the little space I have to reach them. At first I didn't like the idea but now wouldn't go back to the crank downs.
 
harski

harski

Member
I used to spray mine with WD-40 every once in a while and cranked it all the way down and out a couple of times (without the bar). It worked well enough without binding up or permanently welding shut. Just something I learned to deal with I guess.

Harski
 
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MZEMS2

New member
Brake Cleaner to get the crud off, then follow up regularly with WD40. A shot of WD40 does wonders to lots of stuff. If you have a tap and die set, run them over the nuts and the tie downs too.
 
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red600ho

New member
Apply some anti-seize and you will have a problem. Re-apply in the spring so you can move them after sitting all summer. Been doing my mine for years. Still looks like new.
 
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red600ho

New member
I mean it shouldn't be a problem to crank on them. I apply in the spring for summer storage. And again in the fall. I also run a tap and die to make sure everything is nice smooth. I have tried grease but seems to gum up too much.
 
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benz

New member
thanks everyone - i thought there was another way of tying them down but that is a little expensive for now. I went to Fleet Farm got some bolts and anti-seize. While i was in the lubricant aisle i also needed some oil. Which kind to buy? As any good JD'er knows Sea and Snow!

Thanks again. Heading to Northern MN tomorrow night. Hopefully will make it up to Ash River.
 
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snoduke

New member
tie downs

I screw a eye bolt in trailer then take another eye bolt and cut it so it is a hook, mount this on tie down bar with crank made from nut and piece of bar stock. Qick and easy.
 
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pistons

New member
Anti-seize mixed 50/50 with grease gives the most corrosion protection. Seems like Anti-seize alone will dry out after a while if exposed to the air. Stainless nuts and bolts lubed with the above mix will last forever.
 
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doomsman

New member
snoduke said:
I screw a eye bolt in trailer then take another eye bolt and cut it so it is a hook, mount this on tie down bar with crank made from nut and piece of bar stock. Qick and easy.
Click to expand...

Great idea, it gives a little leeway too I would think.
 
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polarisrider1

New member
Anti-seize, Sea foam and Sea and snow are now a snowmobilers best friend? I always thought it was Jager and red bull, Doc Mcgillicuddy and Fireball????
 
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