67' French locks on half shaft; Buckle/twist upon torque

[Dave K.]

Stupid question....or maybe I have some cheap french locks?? Whenever I try to torque the bolt to 60 ft. lbs the french lock starts to bend/twist. I've tried putting silicone on the lock so the bolt has less friction but still no luck. I bought the locks from CC; however, they appear to be aluminum. What am I doing wrong?..or are there better locks on the market?

[Joe L.]

Re: 67' French locks on half shaft; Buckle/twist upon torque

Stupid question....or maybe I have some cheap french locks?? Whenever I try to torque the bolt to 60 ft. lbs the french lock starts to bend/twist. I've tried putting silicone on the lock so the bolt has less friction but still no luck. I bought the locks from CC; however, they appear to be aluminum. What am I doing wrong?..or are there better locks on the market?

Dave------

I can tell you that the exact same problem will be experienced even with the GM locks, GM #3860543 (no longer available). I use a bit of anti-seize compound but the problem still occurs. Stainless steel reproductions are a little harder and more resilient.

[Ray G.]

Re: 67' French locks on half shaft; Buckle/twist upon torque

Hello;
We have had some success by polishing the area of the bolt contacting the french lock the same as chrome or stainless.
A buffing wheel and white rouge.
The process doesn't always stop the twisting of the french lock, but it seems to help along with Joe's suggestion of a little dab of anti-seize.
Ray