Re: [DML] The bolts

["DMC Joe" <dmcjoe@xxxx>]

Lee,

You are absolutely correct. I have been maintaining a DeLorean component and
systems failure rate data base since 1986. The factory bolt failure rate is
extremely low, all failures appear to be associated with incorrect
torquing at the factory. I know of no failures to any cars with replaced or
properly retorqued bolts.

I don't want to diminish the concerns of this much talked about subject but
at the same time don't want readers of this list to get the impression that
this problem is more common than it actually is.

If your DeLorean has never received a trailing arm bolt inspection than I
suggest you have them checked as soon as possible.

Seasons Greetings
DMC Joe
DeLorean Help dmchelp@xxxx
www.dmc.tv
----- Original Message -----
From: "Les Huckins" <jhuckins@xxxx>
To: "K Creason" <dmc4687@xxxx>; <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2001 3:14 AM
Subject: [DML] The bolts


> Data is difficult to obtain, I've been trying to get first hand
> information on actual bolt failures, it appears to be very rare.
> Bending is common, factory torquing, at least early on, was improper and
> allowed the loosening which allowed the bending. From this point I get
> into VIN numbers and the rain belt and the snow belt. Given the many
> 100,000 mile equivalency tests and the rigorous shakedown tests the cars
> were put through it's reasonable that bolt corrections as to type and
> tensioning took place along with the many other updates as assembly
> continued. The two who came out with first hand failure experience,
> Toby and Darryl, both have very low VIN numbers, not very far apart.
> Mileage alone doesn't really tell you anything, a properly torqued bolt
> on a late VIN may go forever and an improperly torqued bolt on an early
> VIN, may fail with very low miles.
>
> A poll based solely upon mileage, not factoring in other conditions, is
> merely a curiosity.
>
>
>