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Technical Threads

Discussion in 'The Hokey Ass Message Board' started by johnfin, Jun 6, 2026.

  1. johnfin
    Joined: Apr 11, 2008
    Posts: 307

    johnfin
    Member
    from Florida

    Whats the engineering behind fine threads vs course threads.
     
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  2. corncobcoupe
    Joined: May 26, 2001
    Posts: 9,541

    corncobcoupe
    SUPER MODERATOR
    Staff Member

    Detailed information per Google …..

    “The fundamental difference between co**** and fine threads lies in the thread pitch—the distance between adjacent thread peaks. Co**** threads have a larger pitch (fewer threads per axial distance), while fine threads have a smaller pitch (more threads packed closer together). [1, 2]
    The engineering behind choosing one over the other involves weighing strength, installation speed, and application type. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

    Key Engineering Differences
    The two thread styles have distinct performance profiles, making them suited for entirely different applications. [1]

    Feature [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7] Co**** Threads Fine Threads
    Mechanical Strength
    Lower tensile and shear strength. Higher tensile and shear strength due to a larger stress area and minor diameter.
    Vibration Resistance Lower resistance. Higher resistance; the smaller helix angle creates more friction against self-loosening.
    Installation Speed Faster; fewer total turns are required to advance the fastener. Slower; more revolutions are needed to achieve the same travel distance.
    Durability & Reusability Less prone to cross-threading; nicks/damage are less likely to ruin the fastener. Highly prone to damage; minor thread damage or plating buildup can cause seizing.
    Galling Risk Minimal risk of galling (the seizing of metals under pressure/friction). High risk, especially in stainless steel, due to tight tolerances and more rubbing surfaces.

    Engineering Applications
    When designing or ***embling, specific properties dictate which thread is mandated. [1, 2]
    • Use Co**** Threads for:
      • Fast ***embly on construction sites or general manufacturing to save time.
      • Soft or brittle materials like wood, plastics, and cast iron.
      • Environments with temperature variations or debris where threads might get dirty or dinged.
      • Parts that will be frequently dis***embled and re***embled. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
    • Use Fine Threads for:
      • High-strength, thin-walled materials where there is less metal thickness to grab onto.
      • Precision adjustment mechanisms (like micrometers or optical lenses) because the smaller angle allows for minute position adjustments.
      • High-vibration environments like automotive and aerospace engines.
      • Hard metals where cutting co**** threads might be difficult. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]”
     
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  3. Cgrgrspt10
    Joined: Mar 22, 2014
    Posts: 110

    Cgrgrspt10
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    fine threads have more cross-sectional area hence greater strength of the bolt
     
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  4. johnfin
    Joined: Apr 11, 2008
    Posts: 307

    johnfin
    Member
    from Florida

    I noticed that exhaust studs are half course, half fine. Justed wanted to know why.
     
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  5. RodStRace
    Joined: Dec 7, 2007
    Posts: 10,849

    RodStRace
    Member

    Carb studs too. Looking at @corncobcoupe 's post, I'd guess the stud mount side (Head, Intake) you want it to be easy to remove if it is seized or breaks. The fastening side (Exhaust, Carb) stronger, resistant to vibration. Kind of the best of both with the attributes spread for ***embly and servicing.
     
  6. Bird man
    Joined: Dec 28, 2009
    Posts: 1,079

    Bird man
    Member
    from Milwaukee

    Primarily less likely to loosen due to vibration.
     
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  7. Sharpone
    Joined: Jul 25, 2022
    Posts: 4,764

    Sharpone
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    One thing I believe every hot rodder or custom guy should have is a Machinery’s Hand Book. Even old ones have just about anything you need to know about designing and machining. Very little changes from version to version. You can pick them up used for reasonable price. I personally like the 20th edition the best came out in the 70s
    Dan
     
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  8. RodStRace
    Joined: Dec 7, 2007
    Posts: 10,849

    RodStRace
    Member

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