Forgefix Carriage Bolt & Nut - M6 x 65mm - Bag 10 - White
These Forgefix Carriage Bolts are Zinc Plated, and ideal for timber to timber joining. They come c...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 DIN603 and DIN934 standards. Available in a comprehensive range of sizes to suit most applications. 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). Versatile fixings for low load bearing applications. Square neck prevents twisting when used in timber. Pack of 10 bolts complete with hex nut.
The Forgefix M6 x 65 Coach Bolt & Nut pack is designed for secure, low-load timber-to-timber connections. Featuring a unique square neck that prevents twisting during installation, these zinc-plated bolts offer enhanced durability for both indoor and outdoor projects, though they are not intended for high-stress structural applications.
All features
Colour
White
Model Part Number
10CB665
Brand
Forgefix
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What does 'M6 x 65' mean for these bolts?
'M6' refers to the metric thread diameter, which is 6 millimeters. '65' indicates the length of the bolt from under the head to the end of the thread, which is 65 millimeters.
Can I use these bolts for outdoor projects?
Yes, these Forgefix Coach Bolts are zinc-plated, which provides good resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for many outdoor applications such as garden furniture, pergolas, and fence panels.
What tools do I need to install these coach bolts?
You will typically need a drill with a suitable wood drill bit (e.g., 6.5mm or 7mm for M6), a hammer to seat the square neck, and a spanner or socket wrench (usually 10mm for an M6 nut) to tighten the nut.
Are these suitable for heavy structural applications?
No, the product description specifies these bolts are ideal for 'low load bearing applications.' For heavy structural work or applications under significant stress, you should consult engineering specifications and use fasteners designed for those loads.
What is the benefit of the square neck design?
The square neck design beneath the bolt head is crucial for timber applications. When the bolt is inserted into a drilled hole and the neck is tapped into the wood, it bites into the timber, preventing the bolt from rotating while you tighten the nut from the other side.
What does 'zinc-plated' mean for durability?
Zinc-plating is a process where a thin layer of zinc is applied to the steel bolt. This zinc acts as a sacrificial coating, corroding before the steel underneath, thus protecting the bolt from rust and extending its lifespan, especially in damp or outdoor conditions.
Can I reuse these bolts?
While technically possible, it's generally not recommended to reuse fasteners, especially in critical applications. The threads can wear, and the square neck's grip on the timber may be compromised, potentially reducing the joint's integrity.
Troubleshooting
Bolt spins freely when trying to tighten the nut.
The square neck of the bolt has not fully seated into the timber. Remove the nut, reposition the bolt, and gently tap the bolt head with a hammer to ensure the square neck bites firmly into the wood before retrying.
Nut feels stiff or won't thread onto the bolt.
Check for debris or damage on the bolt threads or inside the nut. Clean threads if necessary. Ensure the nut is aligned straight and not cross-threaded. If resistance persists, try a different nut from the pack.
Timber around the bolt head is cracking or splitting.
This often occurs due to over-tightening or an undersized pilot hole. Ensure the pilot hole is appropriately sized for the bolt (e.g., 6.5mm for M6 in softer woods; slightly larger in harder woods if splitting is an issue). Avoid excessive force when tightening.
Signs of rust or corrosion appearing prematurely.
While zinc-plated, severe or constant exposure to moisture can still lead to corrosion over time. For highly exposed outdoor or marine environments, consider using stainless steel bolts or applying an additional protective coating (e.g., marine-grade paint) to the installed fixings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Twist-Proof Installation: Square neck design eliminates bolt rotation during tightening in timber.
Corrosion Resistance: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust for outdoor use.
Versatile Applications: Suitable for various timber-to-timber joints in construction and DIY.
Complete Kit: Each pack includes bolts and matching hex nuts, ready for use.
Cost-Effective: Provided in a 10-pack, offering good value for common projects.
Cons
Low Load Bearing Only: Not suitable for high-stress or heavy structural applications.
Limited to Timber: Primarily designed for use with wood; less effective in other materials without specific anchors.
Visible Fastener: The exposed bolt head and hex nut may not suit all aesthetic preferences compared to concealed fixings.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup Instructions
Drill Pilot Hole: Using an appropriate drill bit (e.g., 6.5mm or 7mm for M6, depending on wood hardness), drill a pilot hole through both timber pieces to be joined. The hole should be slightly larger than the bolt's threaded shaft but smaller than the square neck.
Insert Bolt: Push the coach bolt through the drilled holes from the side where the bolt head will rest.
Seat Square Neck: Tap the head of the bolt gently with a hammer if necessary, ensuring the square neck fully engages and bites into the timber on the bolt head side. This prevents the bolt from spinning.
Attach Nut: Place the hex nut onto the threaded end of the bolt.
Tighten: Using a spanner or socket wrench (typically 10mm for an M6 nut), tighten the nut until the joint is secure. Avoid over-tightening, which can crush the timber.
Compatibility
Materials: Primarily designed for joining timber-to-timber components. Can also be used to fix timber to other materials (e.g., thin metal brackets) provided a suitable pilot hole is drilled and the square neck can engage.
Load: Suitable for low load bearing applications. Not recommended for structural connections supporting heavy weights or subject to significant dynamic stresses.
Environment: Zinc-plated finish provides good resistance to typical outdoor weather conditions.
Care and Maintenance
Inspection: Periodically inspect outdoor applications for any signs of corrosion or loosening.
Cleaning: If dirt or debris accumulates, wipe the bolts and nuts clean with a damp cloth.
Retightening: Over time, wood can shrink or expand, potentially causing nuts to loosen. Check and retighten if necessary to maintain joint integrity.
Storage: Store unused bolts and nuts in a dry environment to prevent premature corrosion.