FAQ

You have questions. We have answers. 

Please see below for a list of our most frequently asked questions. 

  • What is the proper way to measure a bolt?

    The proper way to measure most fasteners is to determine the diameter (D), the threads per inch (TPI), and the length under the head (L). This would be written as D-TP x L. As an example a ½” bolt with 13 threads per inch, 4” long would be written ½-13 X 4.

    One exception to this rule is a flat head screw, one that is undercut in order to fit flush to the surface. The length of flat head screws are measured overall, end to end including the head.

    You will also need to know the grade of the bolt and/or material in order to get the proper fastener.

    For more information about these fasteners visit our products page.

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  • Are metric bolts measured the same as US bolts?

    In most cases, yes. The difference is that the threads are measured a little differently. US standard bolt threads are measured as Threads per Inch (TPI). For metric bolts the threads are measured as the Thread Pitch. The thread pitch is the distance between threads (peak to peak) expressed in millimeters (measured along the length of the fastener). For example a thread pitch of 1.5 means that the distance between one thread and the next is 1.5mm.

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  • I need hex keys for some socket head cap screws I use on my equipment. Can you tell me what sizes I need?

    Please visit our Products page covering Socket Head Cap Screws. We have a detailed chart with Spec Data for Socket Head Cap Screws. We cover both US Standard and Metric sizes.

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  • The bolt I have uses a 16mm socket. Is that the size of bolt I need to order?

    The wrench size is determined by the width across the flats of the bolt head. However, bolts are measured based on the diameter of the shank. If your wrench size is 16mm you have a 10mm (diameter) bolt.

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  • I need torque values for some Gr. 8 Hex Caps. Do you have a Torque Chart available?

    We have Torque Value Charts in the Products pages on our website.

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  • Is stainless steel as strong as Gr.8 Hex bolts?

    Although there are Stainless Steels that can be manufactured to achieve a fairly high strength, the typical fasteners in industrial use do not meet the strength requirements of a Gr. 8 bolt. Bayou City Bolt stocks 304, 316, and 410 Stainless Fasteners. Fasteners made from 304 and 316 Stainless fall somewhere between a Gr. 2 and Gr. 5 in strength. As an example, a 304 SS Hex Bolt has a tensile strength between 55,000 and 75,000 psi. Grade 2 and Gr. 5 Hex Bolts have a tensile strength of 74,000 psi and 120,000 psi respectively.

    If you need more information please contact one of our salesmen.

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  • We are looking for someone to manage our fastener stock. Do you have a Vendor Managed Inventory program?

    We do have a VMI program. We have many customers throughout the Houston, TX area that take advantage of our bin stock services. We can supply both the bins and fasteners for your inventory program. As a service to our VMI customers we will come to your site, take inventory of your stock, review our findings with you, prepare a quote for your approval and then restock the items you need.

    You can contact any of our salesmen to find out more about our Vendor Managed Inventory Program.

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  • Do I use the same size wrench for the nut and bolt?

    The width across the flats (WAF) determines the wrench size used. A finish pattern hex nut and bolt will have the same WAF for both the nut and bolt. The same holds true for a heavy pattern nut and bolt. As long as you do not mix up finish and heavy patterns you will use the same size wrench for the nut and bolt.

    To find the specific wrench size need for you application, visit the Products Page on our website.

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  • Where are you located?

    Our physical address is:

    6331 Cullen Blvd.

    Houston, Tx 77021

    Please visit our Contact Us page for a map to our facility.

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  • Do you deliver?

    We have a local delivery for the greater Houston area. Our delivery trucks are running all day, every day.

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  • We do steel erection. Do you carry structural bolts?

    We carry a full line of structural bolts. Both A325 and A490 are kept in stock. A325 is a medium carbon steel structural bolt and is available in plain, zinc and hot dipped galvanized.

    A490 bolts are similar in application and dimensions to A325 heavy hex structural bolts but are made from an alloy steel resulting in a higher strength fastener. The A490 structural bolt is only available in a plain finish.

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  • Do you carry metric bolts?

    Yes, we carry metric bolts. We keep a full line of metric hex head and socket head cap screws in stock. We also carry metric all-thread rod, studs, nuts and washers. Other metric items such as eyebolts, machine screws, taps and die nuts, etc. are in stock as well.

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  • Do you sell to the general public?

    Yes, we do counter sales all day long. Come on in and talk to one of our salesmen. They will be happy to help. Don’t want to wait for your order, fax or email your order and we can have it ready for you when you arrive.

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  • Do you ship your products?

    From Alaska to Florida, Maine to Hawaii, our fasteners are shipped all over the US every day. For standard size packages we use UPS and FedEx. For larger items and LTL shipments we use UPS Freight.

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  • Can I email or fax an RFQ or order to you?

    Absolutely. Our email address is sales@bayoucitybolt.com. Our fax number is 713-747-3924. We will get to work immediately on your request. If you need more information, see our Contact Us page.

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We offer the lowest minimums in the industry, and sell by the piece or in
bulk - you buy only the fasteners you need!

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