Should I Paint U-Bolts to Protect Finish

Question:

Are these required to be painted? - Going on a utility trailer - Thanks

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

If you are concerned about rust and corrosion, an excellent option for you is the CE Smith U-Bolt Kit for Mounting # CE23002 which comes with galvanized plates and zinc-plated hardware. The u-bolts included are also 5-1/2 inches long and 1/2 in diameter just like in the APUBR-1 kit.

You can apply a coat of rust-resistant paint to the U-Bolt Kit # APUBR-1 if you want to but it's not required. In fact, most people don't because these components, while susceptible to rust, are not directly visible and because of where these parts are located, they will be subjected to all kinds of rocks and debris kicked up into them that would eventually abrade any paint or other protective coating off.

expert reply by: Carla M