Forgefix Carriage Bolt & Nut - M6 x 50mm - Bag 10 - White
Carriage Bolt Nut ZP M6 x 50 Bag 10. These Forgefix Carriage Bolts are Zinc Plated, and ideal for ...Carriage Bolt Nut ZP M6 x 50 Bag 10. These Forgefix Carriage Bolts are Zinc Plated, and ideal for timber to timber joining. They come complete with a hex nut and are fully threaded to 100mm. Also known as 'Cup Square Hex Bolts', the square underneath the Cup stops rotation of the bolt when tightening. Conform to DIN 603 and DIN 934 standards. Available in a comprehensive range of sizes to suit most applications. APPLICATION: Used mainly for fastening timber to timber and is extensively used for timber joist construction in house building and numerous decking applications. A Carriage Bolt, also known as a Coach Bolt or as a Fully Threaded Cup Square Hex Bolt, has a domed or countersunk head, and the shank is topped by a short square section under the head. The square section grips into the part being fixed (typically wood), preventing the bolt from turning when the nut is tightened. A rib neck Carriage Bolt has several longitudinal ribs instead of the square section, to grip into a metal part being fixed. Zinc coatings prevent oxidation of the protected metal to create a longer lasting finish. It does this by forming a barrier and by acting as a sacrificial anode if this barrier is damaged. Zinc oxide is a fine white dust that (in contrast to iron oxide) does not trigger a breakdown of the substrates surface integrity as it is formed. The zinc oxide, if left intact, can act as a barrier to further oxidation, in a way similar to the protection afforded to aluminium and stainless steels by their oxide layers.
For DIY enthusiasts and professionals working with timber, the Forgefix Coach Bolt & Nut provides a reliable and easy-to-use fastening solution for low load-bearing applications. This M6 x 50mm zinc-plated bolt, complete with a hex nut and featuring a square neck design, ensures secure timber-to-timber connections for projects like garden furniture, pergolas, or fence panels, though it is specifically designed for applications that do not require high structural load capacities.
All features
Colour
White
Model Part Number
10CB650
Brand
Forgefix
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What size pilot hole should I drill for an M6 coach bolt?
For an M6 coach bolt, it's generally recommended to drill a pilot hole for the shaft that is slightly smaller than the 6mm diameter (e.g., 5mm or 5.5mm, depending on timber hardness) and a separate, larger hole for the square neck section that matches its dimensions to ensure it embeds securely without splitting the wood. Always test on a scrap piece first.
Can these coach bolts be used for heavy-duty structural applications?
No, these Forgefix Coach Bolts are specifically designed for low load-bearing applications. They are not suitable for heavy-duty structural work where high tensile or shear forces are expected. Using them in such applications could compromise safety and structural integrity.
Are these bolts suitable for outdoor use and weather exposure?
Yes, these bolts feature a zinc-plated finish, which provides good resistance to corrosion and rust. This makes them well-suited for outdoor use in applications such as garden furniture, pergolas, and fence panels, offering durability against various weather conditions.
Do these coach bolts come with washers?
No, the Forgefix Coach Bolt & Nut M6 x 50 pack includes the coach bolts and hex nuts only. Washers are not provided. If your application requires washers for increased bearing surface or to protect the timber, you will need to purchase them separately.
What tools are needed to install these coach bolts?
To install these coach bolts, you will typically need a drill with appropriate wood drill bits (one for the shaft and one for the square neck) and a spanner or wrench sized for the M6 hex nut (usually 10mm or 11mm, verify with the actual nut).
Troubleshooting
Bolt head spins when tightening the nut.
Ensure the square neck of the coach bolt is fully embedded and gripping the timber. If the timber is too soft or the pilot hole for the square neck is too large, the neck may not engage properly. Try inserting a small piece of wood or a washer behind the square neck to increase friction, or use a new bolt in a slightly tighter hole.
Nut won't thread onto the bolt easily.
Check for cross-threading by removing the nut and re-aligning it carefully. Ensure there is no debris or damage to the bolt's threads or the nut's internal threads. If damage is present, replace the affected component.
Connection feels loose even after tightening.
This could indicate that the timber has compressed, or the bolt is not long enough for the material thickness. For timber compression, you may need to re-tighten. If the bolt is too short, the threads may not fully engage; ensure the bolt length is appropriate for your material thickness, allowing enough thread for the nut to tighten securely.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Prevents Twisting: The square neck design firmly anchors the bolt in timber, simplifying installation and enhancing stability.
Weather-Resistant: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust and corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
Easy to Use: Supplied with hex nuts, they are ready for immediate assembly with standard tools.
Multipurpose: Excellent for a range of timber-to-timber projects where moderate strength is sufficient.
Cost-Effective Pack: A 10-pack provides good value for typical DIY or small construction needs.
Cons
Low Load-Bearing Only: Not suitable for high-stress or heavy structural applications, which could lead to failure.
Specific Size: M6 x 50mm dimensions may not fit all project requirements, necessitating different sizes for other tasks.
No Washers Included: Users may need to purchase washers separately for specific applications that require increased bearing surface or protection against material crushing.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup Instructions
Drill Pilot Hole: Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the bolt's shaft diameter (e.g., 6mm for M6, or slightly less like 5mm depending on timber hardness) and a larger diameter bit for the square neck section, drill through both timber pieces to be joined. Ensure the hole for the square neck is appropriately sized to allow the neck to embed firmly without splitting the timber.
Insert Bolt: Push the coach bolt through the drilled holes from the side where the bolt head will rest. Ensure the square neck engages fully with the timber surface.
Attach Nut: Place the hex nut onto the threaded end of the bolt.
Tighten: Using a spanner or wrench, tighten the hex nut until the connection is secure. The square neck should prevent the bolt from rotating, allowing for single-tool tightening.
Compatibility
Material Compatibility: Primarily designed for timber-to-timber connections. Can be used in conjunction with metal plates or brackets if suitable holes are present.
Load Bearing: Compatible only with low load-bearing applications. Do not use in critical structural elements where high shear or tensile strength is required.
Thread Size: M6 thread, requiring an M6 hex nut (supplied) or other M6 compatible fasteners.
Care & Maintenance
Inspection: Periodically inspect installed bolts, especially in outdoor environments, for any signs of loosening or corrosion.
Cleaning: If dirt or debris accumulates, clean with a damp cloth.
Corrosion Protection: While zinc-plated, extreme or prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or saltwater may accelerate corrosion. Consider additional protective coatings if used in such environments.
Tightening: Retighten nuts if any loosening is detected to maintain connection integrity.