The Forgefix Coach Bolt & Nut M10 x 50 is an essential fastening solution for DIY enthusiasts and professionals working with timber. Designed for versatility and ease of use, these zinc-plated bolts excel in creating strong, non-twisting joins in low load-bearing applications like garden furniture and fencing. While highly effective for its intended purpose, it's important to select the correct size and pre-drill appropriately to prevent wood splitting.
M10 x 50mm Dimensions: Features a 10mm thread diameter and a 50mm length, ideal for a variety of timber thicknesses.
Square Neck Design: The distinctive square neck prevents the bolt from twisting when used in timber, allowing for single-wrench tightening of the nut.
Zinc-Plated Finish: Provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, making the bolts suitable for outdoor and exposed applications.
Versatile Application: Specifically designed for joining timber to timber, including timber joist construction, garden furniture, pergolas, and fence panels.
Convenient 10-Pack: Each package contains 10 coach bolts complete with matching hex nuts, ensuring you have enough fasteners for your project.
Low Load-Bearing: Optimized for applications where structural integrity is not under heavy stress, offering reliable fastening without being overkill.
Easy to Install: The square neck design simplifies installation, as it bites into the timber, preventing rotation.
Corrosion Resistant: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust and weathering, extending the lifespan in outdoor conditions.
Secure Fastening: Provides a strong, stable joint that withstands general use and environmental elements.
Versatile for Timber Projects: Excellent for a wide range of common woodworking and outdoor construction tasks.
Complete Kit: Each pack includes both bolts and nuts, eliminating the need to purchase them separately.
Not for High Load Applications: Designed for low load-bearing only; unsuitable for critical structural components under heavy stress.
Requires Pre-Drilling: A pilot hole is necessary to prevent timber splitting and ensure proper square neck seating.
Specific to Timber: Primarily intended for timber-to-timber connections, limiting its use in other material types.
"White" Color Finish: While zinc-plated, the listed "White" colour might not suit all aesthetic preferences, though it generally refers to the bright appearance of zinc.
Easy to Install: The square neck design simplifies installation, as it bites into the timber, preventing rotation.
Corrosion Resistant: Zinc plating offers good protection against rust and weathering, extending the lifespan in outdoor conditions.
Secure Fastening: Provides a strong, stable joint that withstands general use and environmental elements.
Versatile for Timber Projects: Excellent for a wide range of common woodworking and outdoor construction tasks.
Complete Kit: Each pack includes both bolts and nuts, eliminating the need to purchase them separately.
Not for High Load Applications: Designed for low load-bearing only; unsuitable for critical structural components under heavy stress.
Requires Pre-Drilling: A pilot hole is necessary to prevent timber splitting and ensure proper square neck seating.
Specific to Timber: Primarily intended for timber-to-timber connections, limiting its use in other material types.
"White" Color Finish: While zinc-plated, the listed "White" colour might not suit all aesthetic preferences, though it generally refers to the bright appearance of zinc.
The Forgefix Coach Bolt & Nut M10 x 50 is engineered for straightforward and secure fastening in timber. Its core strength lies in its square neck feature, which embeds into the timber as the nut is tightened. This means you typically only need one wrench or spanner on the nut side, while the bolt head remains stationary against the wood, simplifying installation and ensuring a tight, non-twisting connection.
These bolts are particularly effective for:
Garden Furniture Assembly: Providing robust joints for benches, tables, and chairs that will endure outdoor conditions.
Pergola Construction: Securing timber beams and uprights where heavy structural loads are not the primary concern.
Fence Panel Installation: Offering a reliable way to attach fence panels to posts, resisting movement and weathering.
Timber Joist Construction (Low Load): Suitable for connecting smaller joists or non-primary support elements.
General Timber-to-Timber Joints: Ideal for various DIY projects where a strong, secure, and somewhat weather-resistant connection is needed.
The zinc-plated finish is a significant advantage, offering a good level of protection against rust and corrosion, which is crucial for any outdoor timber structure. While they are described as 'low load-bearing,' they provide more than sufficient strength for their intended applications, ensuring durability and peace of mind. Always ensure the timber is adequately thick to accommodate the bolt's length and allow for sufficient thread engagement of the nut.
Prepare the Timber: Identify the pieces of timber you wish to join. Ensure they are aligned correctly.
Drill Pilot Holes: Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the M10 (10mm) bolt's shaft diameter (typically 10mm or 9mm, depending on wood density), drill through both pieces of timber where the bolt will pass. The pilot hole should be just large enough for the bolt shaft to pass through, but tight enough for the square neck to bite into the timber.
Tip: For softer woods, a 10mm drill bit might suffice. For harder woods, a slightly smaller bit (e.g., 9.5mm or even 9mm) can ensure a tighter fit for the square neck, but always test on scrap wood first.
Insert the Bolt: Push the coach bolt through the pre-drilled holes until the square neck rests against the timber surface.
Seat the Square Neck: Gently tap the bolt head with a hammer (use a block of wood to protect the bolt head if necessary) to fully seat the square neck into the timber. This prevents the bolt from spinning.
Attach the Nut: Place the hex nut onto the threaded end of the bolt. Tighten it using an appropriate wrench or spanner until the connection is secure. Do not overtighten, as this can compress or split the timber.
Material: Primarily designed for timber-to-timber connections. Its square neck is optimized for embedding into wood.
Application: Suitable for low load-bearing applications. This means it's great for assembling garden sheds, trellises, wooden gates, and non-structural framework.
Environment: The zinc-plated finish makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, offering resistance to moisture and rust.
Regular Inspection: Periodically check bolted joints, especially on outdoor structures, for any signs of loosening or corrosion.
Re-tightening: If a joint feels loose, gently re-tighten the nut. Avoid excessive force.
Cleaning: If dirt or grime accumulates, wipe the bolts clean with a damp cloth. For stubborn residue, a mild cleaning solution can be used, followed by rinsing and drying.
Rust Prevention: While zinc-plated, extreme or prolonged exposure to harsh elements can eventually lead to surface rust. Consider applying a clear protective coating or paint over the bolt heads and nuts for added longevity in very damp or coastal environments.