4x4Wire TrailTalk Forums Index

Quote:

---

So are you saying that after time you got a bigger hole in your arms where the bolt was and thus changed over to TRE's?

---

Yup... there was obvious wear on the fastener and a lip formed on the top of the hole in the arm. Beyond that, the SREs themselves plumb wore out too fast. Based on wear alone, I'd go with TREs. I used a set of cheap SREs and a set of spendy SREs with the same results...

Quote:

---

I know mine are a pretty snug fit, but if this will happen then why do they even suggest you use them?

---

It is an *eventual* thing for most folks. Note that my SREs didn't have a failure, per se, they just got loose enough to have slop.

Why do folks still use SREs? My guesses?
1.) Ease. They are easier to implement than a tapered TRE. Drill a hole, slap it in, and drive... Sure, one could use a straight reamer to cut a precision hole, then insert a precision fastener, but hardly anyone does it this way -- if they wanted to do this kind of machining, they'd just run TREs to start with.
2.) Marketing. SREs are sexy -- I'll cop to that. They are cool parts, nothing like the average old TRE, with the precision bits shrouded in grease, under a boot. The print mags play them up, as well. Let's face it, we're easily distracted by bright, shiny objects!

The truth is, for many folks, SREs will work fine, maybe even for a reasonable time. IMHO, TREs would work better, and for longer, in just about every imaginable case, but that's my opinion (founded, as it is in experience), and opinions are like 's -- everyone's got one, right? If you don't trust my opinion, though... look to the OEMs. TREs everywhere, from heavy mega-buck trucks to a super-lightweight econobox, from family minivans to high-performance sports cars... When a manufacturer needs a rod-end to stand up to abuse and still provide dependable warranty life the TRE is chosen over the SRE.

Randii

--------------------
Randy Burleson
4x4Wire Managing Editor Emeritus
Mongrel Isuzu Amigo

Post Extras