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What are center bolt heads?

Center bolt heads, also known as countersunk bolt heads, are a type of fastener head design that is recessed into the surface it is mounted on. This allows the bolt head to sit flush with or below the surface, creating a smooth and streamlined appearance. Center bolt heads are commonly used in applications where a flush or low-profile finish is desired, such as in furniture, cabinetry, and automotive parts.


What are Center Bolt Heads?


Center bolt heads are a type of bolt head that is designed to be recessed into the surface it is mounted on. This is achieved by having a tapered or countersunk shape, which allows the bolt head to sit flush with or slightly below the surface. This design is in contrast to the more common hex bolt head, which protrudes above the surface.


The primary purpose of center bolt heads is to provide a smooth, flush finish to the surface they are mounted on. This is particularly important in applications where aesthetics are a concern, such as in furniture, cabinetry, and automotive parts. By recessing the bolt head, the surface remains uninterrupted and visually appealing.


Benefits of Center Bolt Heads


Center bolt heads offer several benefits over traditional hex bolt heads:



  • Flush Finish: The recessed design of center bolt heads allows them to sit flush with or below the surface, creating a smooth and uninterrupted appearance.

  • Improved Aesthetics: The flush finish of center bolt heads makes them more visually appealing, which is important in applications where appearance is a priority.

  • Reduced Snag Hazard: The low-profile design of center bolt heads reduces the risk of snagging or catching on clothing, hair, or other objects, making them safer in certain applications.

  • Increased Accessibility: The recessed design of center bolt heads can make them easier to access and tighten in tight spaces or confined areas.


Overall, center bolt heads are a versatile and practical fastener option for a wide range of applications where a flush, low-profile finish is desired.

What is the most common bolt head?


hex head bolts
A staple in a broad spectrum of industries, hex head bolts are one of the most commonly used fasteners. Their popularity is due to a combination of their affordability, ease of use, and their high tensile strength capabilities.



What does center bolt mean?


Bolt pattern or bolt center is the diameter of an imaginary circle formed by the centers of the wheel lugs. Odd (5 bolt) With 5-lug wheels, there is not a hole directly opposite any hole. Please note that the measurement is only an estimate, unless accurately measured using a bolt pattern gauge.



What is the purpose of bolt head?


Bolt heads
Bolts use a wide variety of head designs, as do screws. These are designed to engage with the tool used to tighten them. Some bolt heads instead lock the bolt in place, so that it does not move and a tool is only needed for the nut end. Common bolt heads include hex, slotted hex washer, and socket cap.



What is the purpose of a center bolt?


In a leaf spring assembly, one of the most important pieces is the center bolt. At the center of each leaf is a hole. The bolt gets slotted through this hole in each of the four, five or more leaves that comprise a spring. Effectively, the center bolt holds the leaves together and puts them in contact with the axle.



What heads are on 5.3 LS?


The 5.3 LS could be had with one of four cylinder heads: 706 heads, 862 heads, 799 heads, or 243 heads. We'll run through each iteration below, providing chamber and valve sizing, and their pros and cons to help you decide what are the best LS heads for your build.



What is the center bolt pattern?


Bolt pattern is expressed as the number of lugs by the diameter of the imaginary circle formed by the center of the lugs. For example, 5 x 4.5 in., or 4 x 100mm. The bolt pattern MUST match the pattern on the axle hub. Even a slight difference will cause the wheel to be off-center.



What are the three types of bolts?


Common Types of Bolts

  • Place bolts feature self-locking, free-spinning hex heads that prevent loosening due to vibration.
  • Carriage bolts feature reduced body diameters and enlarged, domed heads.
  • Hex bolts feature six-sided hex caps on one end.



What is so special about Vortec heads?


Stock Vortec heads come with pressed-in 3/8-inch rocker studs and do not use guideplates. The rocker arms are guided (also called "rail" rockers) and employ a pair of guides or rails that center the rocker arm over the valve. This eliminates the need for pushrod guideplates.



What year did Center bolt Heads come out?


In 1987, another round of changes were made, this time to the top of the engine. Engine now has Center Bolt valve covers (Figure D), and the intake manifold bolt angle has changed on the four center intake bolts, thus making all previous intakes not applicable to the 1987-1997 Engines.



Are all center bolt heads Vortec?


Yes, GM made non-vortec center bolt valve cover heads, if that's what you mean. IIRC, Vortecs have a "sawtooth" stamping on the front of at least one head. Best to check the casting numbers and ask someone on here what you have.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.