Caliper carrier bolts

[Gavv8]

Having just changed the rear discs i was wondering if there is any reason why i couldn't swap the caliper carrier hex bolts for normal ones of the same size, is there any particular reason why hex bolts are used as they can be prone to shearing or rounding off if siezed and although mine did come out with a bit of heat i'd rather just replace things as i go along with easier to maintain parts.

[Screech16v]

No reason you cant change them as long as you can get a socket on them and you replace them with same high tensile strength.

[Christo77]

Aren't hex bolts normal bolts?   i don't know myself but do you mean those carrier bolts are allen or torx bolts...
I'm doing this job myself soon, just gathering parts together.

[Screech16v]

He means allen heads .

[Gavv8]

Yes sorry , the originals are allen head bolts and i'd like to replace them with hex head bolts.
I'd read somewhere on the forum that they can be a pain to remove and access isn't great so i had a stud extractor on standby but mine came out with a bit of blowlamp heat and i'd rather replace them with something that i can get a ratchet spanner on.

[Christo77]

I guess some people prefer hex bolts where possible, can understand that.. although i suppose vw used allen head carrier bolts there for a reason.
In my experience i'm no less confident when faced with either type, and well.. both can prove difficult if neglected or misused by a previous owner.
Funny thing is i've just restored a motorcycle and it does give you a good insight into why and what type of fixings/fittings are used in various places, various components etc...
That said.. good job done anyways, hope mine goes as well.

[F17BAD]

them allen head bolts are a terrible choice

we have got a GTI in for breaking and need the rear carriers for another car.. the allen head bolts are completely rounded

[thai-wronghorse]

Heat and Irwin bolt extractors every time. If you plan to change them make sure they're at least 11.8 or 12.9 tensile grade bolts.