Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

[AZcamperguy]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone could tell me how to install the pal nuts on the roller shaft? I feel silly asking but I tried hammering it on and it doesn't seem to be working. Rather than break or ruin something I thought I would ask first.

Thanks for your help, Chris

 

[Tiki35]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

They are a pain for sure. They are impossible to take off because they are so tough to get on.

Do one end off the trailer with rod vertical on a piece of cement. Using needle nose pliers to position the cap perfectly perpendicular, then use a small sledge hammer to tap it on.

Same thing once in place on the keel rollers for the other end, but now they are tougher. Again use needle nose pliers and the hammer. Takes a few attempts, but you'll get it.

 

[AZcamperguy]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

Ok, so this is one occassion where I can't over do it

Thanks for the help Tiki35

 

[204 Escape]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

What are pal nuts ??

 

[Tiki35]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

They are the metal end caps on either end of the roller shafts that go through the keel rollers.

 

[rentprop1]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

they look like a little hat...lol

 

[idrownworms]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

How about a socket that just slips over so when you tap with the hammer it'll tend to go on straight?
Just a guess I've never used em before

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

I use a metal file, and put a little chamfer on the shaft end.

This helps the pal nut get a 'running' start...and helps the nut stay straight!

 

[reelfishin]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

I find that they go on easier with one quick hard shot with a hard rubber or urethane mallet. You don't want to bend them up or knock off the galvanized coating if you can help it.

 

[204 Escape]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

Oh, o.k., I know what they are. Just didn't know their "name". :redface:

 

[AZcamperguy]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

Yeah, one good whack with a sledge got the first one on but after that and reading the thread about the difficulties removing them, I decided to just go with a bolt and nuts. Thanks for the input.

 

[Expidia]

Re: Pal nuts and new rollers - How to?

I too use the socket to keep them going on straight and just wack the socket with a hammer or a plastic mallet if you don't want to mar up a good socket. Of course, when you are mounting the last pal nut on the other end in the boat's roller bracket it helps to brace the other side of the rod ( use a piece of wood) so the rod has something to be against and does not move when you are whacking the other pal nut on.

I even went as far as to have my pal nuts spot welded on after I bought two auto centering rollers (about $30 each) and one was stolen the 2nd time I left the trailer in the parking lot near the boat launch.

I actually prefer the rods with the cotter pin type clips, but they are too easy to steal at the launch areas.