Forgefix Carriage Bolt & Nut - M10 x 200mm - Bag 10 - White

M10 refers to the bolt's nominal diameter of 10 millimeters, and 200mm indicates its length from just under the domed head to the tip of the thread.

The square shoulder is designed to bite into soft materials like timber. This prevents the bolt from spinning when you tighten the nut, allowing for single-sided installation without needing a wrench on the head.

While technically possible, carriage bolts are primarily designed for wood. For metal-to-metal connections, hex head bolts with washers are generally more suitable as they allow for better grip and torque application on both sides.

While not always strictly necessary, using a washer under the nut is highly recommended. It helps distribute the clamping force over a larger area, preventing the nut from digging into the material and providing a more secure and stable connection.

While you can unfasten and refasten them, repeated use, especially in timber, might weaken the square shoulder's bite. For critical or structural applications, it's generally best practice to use new fasteners to ensure optimal security.

This specific Forgefix product (MPN: 10CB10200) comes in a bag containing 10 M10 x 200mm carriage bolts and their corresponding nuts.

Ensure the square shoulder under the domed head is fully embedded into the timber. If it's not seating properly, gently tap the head with a hammer (using a protective block of wood) to drive it in. If the drilled hole is too large, the shoulder may not grip; consider filling the hole slightly or using a larger washer under the bolt head if possible.

Verify that the drilled pilot hole diameter matches or is slightly larger than the M10 (10mm) bolt diameter. If the hole is too small, use an appropriate 10mm or 11mm drill bit to re-drill and enlarge it.

While zinc plating offers resistance, extreme conditions or damage can lead to corrosion. For maintenance, clean off any surface rust and apply a rust-inhibiting paint or clear protective coating to the affected area. For future projects in very harsh environments, consider fasteners made from stainless steel.