Length: Look at the length of the holes you need to secure and compare this number to the shortest leg of the cotter pin - the length of the hole should be shorter than both cotter pin prongs to ensure the cotter pin performs effectively and dependably.Head size: Find a cotter pin head size that is large enough to prevent the pin from moving over time with constant vibrations but no so large that it could prevent movement of other pieces or that it could become jammed.

Width: Measure the diameter of the hole where the cotter pin needs to fit, and find a pin in the biggest possible size to fit in the corresponding material hole.

When choosing the best cotter pin for your application, consider: Pin lengths range from ¼ inch to 6 inches. Our thickest pin measures 3/8 inches in width. FMW Fasteners offers 18 cotter pin sizes to choose from, including small cotter pins that measure only 1/32 of an inch. If it's too narrow, the pin will wobble and compromise the assembly's stability. You want a pin that is long enough to reach all the way through the hole in the bolt with some left over for bending, but without so much extra length that it can't provide tension.Īdditionally, the pin needs to be the right diameter to fit into the bolt's hole and yield a lasting hold.

When choosing the right size of the cotter pin, there are two dimensions to consider. Fastening a nut on a motorcycle or vehicle wheel.When the prongs of the pin are pulled well apart, they provide a stable hold and won't slip out.Ĭotter pins are ideal for use with bolts intended for machinery that moves or vibrates. Once the pin is all the way through the hole, you twist the ends of the pin outwards so that they pull away from each other. To attach a cotter pin to a compatible bolt, you simply slide it into the hole. Certain types of bolts are specifically designed for use with cotter pins and have pre-drilled holes for this purpose. The primary use for a cotter pin is to secure a bolt by slipping into a hole drilled in the bolt body. There are also different styles of cotter pins available, from extended prong pins to R-shaped pins. These U-shaped pieces of metal with a wide circular top can be made from stainless steel or zinc and come in a range of sizes. What Are Cotter Pins?Ĭotter pins, also known as split pins, are designed to hold bolts in place. When you need cotter pins that are going to work hard each day, just like you do, find the toughest cotter pins available when you choose FMW Fasteners as your supplier. A cotter pin is a two-pronged fastener made from metal that installs easily while providing structural support.įMW Fasteners offers both zinc-plated and stainless steel cotter pins. Cotter pins, while simple in design, are infinitely useful when you need to keep pieces of machinery in place and secure over a period of time.

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