[jjb]

It was recently suggested in a thread to use ACME threaded rod to make the home-made spring compressors that are so often discussed here. I agree this would be a good idea, but an internet search proves surprisingly dissappointing. There are lots of sources of ACME threaded rod in commercial quantities (including custom made) but virtually nothing in small amounts. I've even thought of buying a couple of cheap scissor jacks and robbing the shaft (although I don't know where to get the nuts).

Anyone ever find this stuff somewhere ?

Cheers,
Jeff

 

[Tifosi]

I bought mine at the local Ace hardware store.

They have several varieties of diameter and pitch in both SAE and metric right next to their bolt bin isle. 3 foot long hunks all ready to go out the door.

Likely any of the chain hardware stores would have some selection or another. (I know Hiawatha Fasteners can get the stuff in up to 8' lengths pretty cheaply and Home Depot had a few 3 footers)

 

[Tater]

I you are looking for true Acme threaded rod and not common V-threaded rod that is available at home centers and hardware stores, Try here: http://www1.mscdirect.com/CGI/GSDRVSM?PACACHE=000000031070759
and here: http://www.mcmaster.com -Search for Acme threaded rod.

 

[jjb]

Thanks guys,

Yea - I wanted Acme threads. Looks like McMaster has it all right.
Good tip....

Cheers,

Jeff

 

[conedriver]

Jeff,

It's good that you found ACME threaded rods (and presumably nuts), but you don't really need this. I have changed springs numerous times using the common hardware store threaded rod. If you use the rods at all four corners of the spring pan, there is a good safety margin.

Thanks guys,

Yea - I wanted Acme threads. Looks like McMaster has it all right.
Good tip....

Cheers,

Jeff