Dash accessory nut insert

[gbub]

I am trying to figure out what thread is on the nut insert that is on top of the dash to be used for accessories. I tried a M6-1.0 bolt and it started okay but stopped after a couple turns. I am guessing it is a M6-1.25 thread. I did a search and found many are using a 1/4-20 bolt. That is about the same pitch as a metric 1.25 but I doubt the Bronco has any SAE threaded fasteners.

I tried a 1/4-20 bolt and it worked just fine. It felt a little loose though. I know 6mm dia. is slightly smaller than 1/4", but I don't know if the thread is smaller. I guess I can find a M6-1.25 bolt and compare the fit. That does not seem to be a standard pitch for a M6 bolt though.

I know I could just use the 1/4-20 bolt but I would like to have a snugger fit and don't like mixing SAE and metric fasteners. Any thoughts on this?

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[Chrome_Pony]

Should be just the standard camera accessory stud size 1/4" x 20, to accept camera and GoPro threaded mounts.

 

[gbub]

I didn't think about that. I am using it for something else. It does make sense that it would have threads for a camera mount if that is what it is commonly used for.

I have access to a machinist's handbook. I can check there to compare the pitch diameter of the metric and SAE threads to see which one would fit better.

Thanks for that information.

 

[CalvinT]

The tripod mount on almost all cameras is Whitworth. Anyone who's worked on old (1950s or earlier) British cars or motorcycles will have heard of Whitworth bolts. The 1/4 x 20 Whitworth is close to UNC. The pitch and diameter is the same as UNC. But the thread angle is different. UNC is 60 degrees, Whitworth is 55 degrees. That's why a 1/4 x 20 bolt from the hardware store feels loose.

But you're right the Bronco doesn't have any SAE threaded fasteners. Just all metric except for one 1/4 x 20 Whitworth a the top of your dashboard.

 

[CalvinT]

bhphotovideo.com sells tripod screws.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/sear...t_category:leg_assembly_parts_accessories_399

 

[CalvinT]

I am trying to figure out what thread is on the nut insert that is on top of the dash to be used for accessories. I tried a M6-1.0 bolt and it started okay but stopped after a couple turns. I am guessing it is a M6-1.25 thread. I did a search and found many are using a 1/4-20 bolt. That is about the same pitch as a metric 1.25 but I doubt the Bronco has any SAE threaded fasteners.

I tried a 1/4-20 bolt and it worked just fine. It felt a little loose though. I know 6mm dia. is slightly smaller than 1/4", but I don't know if the thread is smaller. I guess I can find a M6-1.25 bolt and compare the fit. That does not seem to be a standard pitch for a M6 bolt though.

I know I could just use the 1/4-20 bolt but I would like to have a snugger fit and don't like mixing SAE and metric fasteners. Any thoughts on this?

What kind of accessories are you thinking about using? There are adapters to mount Acra-Swiss mounts, a couple of different size mounting balls, Picatinny rails and probably a few I missed. Almost everyone makes adapters for them.

 

[adam1991]

I have access to a machinist's handbook Google. I can check there to compare the pitch diameter of the metric and SAE threads to see which one would fit better.

ftfy

For the record, I already did that. In fact, I believe Gemini kicked in.

 

[CalvinT]

I just did some research, which I should have done before making my previous posts. The tripod hole is 1/4 - 20 UNC. If your bolts or screws are loose, they could be poor quality bolts.

 

[Brian_B]

Don’t most adapters have a nut on them you snug down to tighten up on the mounting bracket?

Pretty sure the bolt is supposed to be a bit loose so you can adjust it, then you lock it in place with the jam nut

 

[Pops]

I was just starting another Bonehead DIY project idea: a dash mount for stuff.... thank you CalvinT and Brian_B for the timely confirmation info!

and I thought I was a fastener spec nerd.....

 

[CalvinT]

Don’t most adapters have a nut on them you snug down to tighten up on the mounting bracket?

Pretty sure the bolt is supposed to be a bit loose so you can adjust it, then you lock it in place with the jam nut

It depends. Some you can snug up to the dash, then the adjustment is in the mount.

 

[Dan-O]

Could always put a wrap of thread tape on bolt to snug it up, if you don’t find a more appropriate solution.

 

[Beggsie]

I am trying to figure out what thread is on the nut insert that is on top of the dash to be used for accessories. I tried a M6-1.0 bolt and it started okay but stopped after a couple turns. I am guessing it is a M6-1.25 thread. I did a search and found many are using a 1/4-20 bolt. That is about the same pitch as a metric 1.25 but I doubt the Bronco has any SAE threaded fasteners.

I tried a 1/4-20 bolt and it worked just fine. It felt a little loose though. I know 6mm dia. is slightly smaller than 1/4", but I don't know if the thread is smaller. I guess I can find a M6-1.25 bolt and compare the fit. That does not seem to be a standard pitch for a M6 bolt though.

I know I could just use the 1/4-20 bolt but I would like to have a snugger fit and don't like mixing SAE and metric fasteners. Any thoughts on this?

Camera tripod bolt - $7 on Amazon

 

[Robs]

I am trying to figure out what thread is on the nut insert that is on top of the dash to be used for accessories. I tried a M6-1.0 bolt and it started okay but stopped after a couple turns. I am guessing it is a M6-1.25 thread. I did a search and found many are using a 1/4-20 bolt. That is about the same pitch as a metric 1.25 but I doubt the Bronco has any SAE threaded fasteners.

I tried a 1/4-20 bolt and it worked just fine. It felt a little loose though. I know 6mm dia. is slightly smaller than 1/4", but I don't know if the thread is smaller. I guess I can find a M6-1.25 bolt and compare the fit. That does not seem to be a standard pitch for a M6 bolt though.

I know I could just use the 1/4-20 bolt but I would like to have a snugger fit and don't like mixing SAE and metric fasteners. Any thoughts on this?

Could add a nut onto the bolt to secure the fit

 

[gbub]

I understand a nut is used to help keep the bolt from coming loose, but I am more concerned about a loose fit of the threads. A loose fit makes it easier to strip the threads when tightened.

I found the M6-1.25 has a smaller pitch diameter so a 1/4-20 bolt has a better fit. I tried several different 1/4-20 bolts and found one that had a better fit. it also has an O-ring under the head which should help it from backing off. Using a nut with what I am doing would be difficult and look strange. If I have a problem with the bolt coming loose, I will use a little blue Loctite.

I do appreciate the suggestion.

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