Bearing cap nuts

[Big Mike]

Anyone have a source for new 5/16" lock nuts for rod bearing caps? I've checked all the local places that call themselves "parts retailers" and found nothing. Sure miss the old timers that used to run the auto parts stores.....now it seems they're all staffed by cute(term used loosely)young girls. Am I just getting old and cantankerous or are others having the same experience?

[Jeff D. N.E. Wis.]

When I did our 49 I ordered a set from Case I-H for a pricey amount because I wanted originals. What I received was a plain Nylock nut (the nuts with the plastic ring in the end) that replaced the originals. I could have gone to the hardware store and gotten them for 1/3 the price. Just food for thought.

[bob in CT]

A good counterperson is worth their weight in gold. They used to be able to make a living but now it seems that all we get are chain stores where the help is treated like last year's sale posters. And it shows. Don't you love it at the checkout counter when the help ignores you to talk to their friends about their weekend plans?

I do not trust nyloc nuts inside engines. You can get expanding lock nuts at Mcmaster Carr

http://www.mcmaster.com/#locknuts/=3cji8k

[DRShahan]

Sorry to dig up an old forum, but does anyone know if these are 5/16-18 or 5/16-24? Should I look for grade 5, or even 8?

I'm just getting my cub back together and several of these just spun on. I'm planning to drop the pan and replace after I get it broken in.

Agree on using all steel nuts. Most Nyloc's are only good to about 250 degrees. I was in a racing series that required nyloc's everywhere, including the exhaust! We always had to back it up with an expanding lock nut. The burning nylon always made a lovely smell....

[staninlowerAL]

Am I just getting old and cantankerous or are others having the same experience?

Just about every time I go in one of the "chain" type stores. Fortunately, there are a couple of old "real parts" stores left near me and I usually go there. Both have been in the business for more than 40 years and have been mechanics in the past. I'm lucky!! Stan