Rake Landscape Rake Bolts

[AlanB]

What type of bolts should be used to hold the tines on my landscape rake?

It does not have a name or any other identifying marks that I can find.

The reason I ask is that the holes in the angle appear tapered, and I wondered if there was a special bolt for them? But thinking about it, I bet it was just a punched hole that ended up slightly tapered.

I was thinking of using grade 8, 3/8 X 1 1/2 with Nylock nuts. I am guessing that the tine would give prior to that bolt.

Any outside thoughts on Tines and securing them? I saw a KK I believe with an additional strap bolted on about halfway down the tines. Does that help do something?

Thanks.

 

[MadReferee]

I used 3/8" grade 8 bolts and nuts on the rake I built. The tines will bend before the bolts shear.

 

[RonR]

Isn't two Grade 8 bolts in each tine overkill? I'd think you could save a few bucks with Grade 5s.......

For sure you'd need a locknut on it with all the vibration.

Great pic though!

Ron

 

[MadReferee]

I bought a box of 100 from McMaster-Carr. Not very expensive. The bolts all have lock washers and a small drop of blue loctite.

I really beat this rake to death last fall and had no tines come loose.

 

[KiotiJohn]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I really beat this rake to death last fall and had no tines come loose. )</font> I've never had any of the bolts loosen on my economy rake, but twice I backed into trees inadvertently and each time broke of one outer spring tine. Happens quickly before I realize I was on the tree. They snap right off just outside the bolts. Guess I'd better get the old neck snapping backward a little quicker huh? John

 

[MadReferee]

Speaking of landscape rakes, I have come across a rake assembly for a Landpride LR1584. It needs some minor welding repairs but is in good shape otherwise. Tines are not included.

If you are in New England (I don't ship) and want a project for the summer, or want to expand the size of your existing rake, let me know. I will let this go for a lot less than MSRP. Better yet, make me a reasonable offer.

 

[KiotiJohn]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( If you are in New England (I don't ship) and want a project for the summer, or want to expand the size of your existing rake, let me know. I will let this go for a lot less than MSRP. Better yet, make me a reasonable offer. )</font> Mad, you're a good guy. You're always offering to help, and that's a great thing. I'd also like to again thank you for sending me the plans for that dethatcher. Your friends may call you Mad, but I bet they're also glad to call you their friend. John