I will probably be raked over the coals for this.. but here goes.
I am finishing up installation on a 74 Waggy D44 in my CJ.
I am running a hi steer setup with a 1" spacer under the hi steer arm. I am needing the 4" Studs that most places are selling in a kit for $30 a side with the conical washers. I already have the washers for both sides and only need studs and nuts.
A guy at work suggested I use Grade 8 threaded rod and cut to desired length. He checked and can get a 3' length for $15 + Nuts.
So with the stud kits going to be $100+ Canadian by the time they are too my door I am considering it. I am just concerned about the strength.
How much stronger are the studs compared to a grade 8 bolt or threaded rod.

Any advice on this would be great.
Thanks

Go with Sky arms that have a 1" rise but are counter sunk so you can run a 3" stud. With the little extra you spend on arms you more than make up for not buying a spacer and 4" studs. My .02

I already have the arms and spacers just need the studs!

Try Partsmike.com and see what they have.

If you can keep the threaded rod from over heating while your cutting it, you should be ok.
If your going to use a chop saw or sawzall then buy the stud kit.
If you use a band saw w/ lubricating coolant then cut the threaded rod yourself.

That's a good question. Im not sure what the heat treat process is on the OEM studs. Maybe they are exactly the same hardness as gr 8 hardware. Maybe they are harder for more tensil strength. Maybe they are softer to give a little when in shear. That's a tough call really. Only because it could very well be your's and someone else's life if your wrong.
BTW since im sure your probably going to do this. Take the advice above and at least do a cold cut. No heat whatsoever.........

I would run the studs. The threaded area that passes through the arm has less effective surface area than a stud, you'll be putting the stress on the crest of the threads. Bolts and threaded rod are for fastening, studs are for fastening and locating. It's for your steering, get the studs.

spend the $30.00, its cheaper than your life!

This is from Parts Mike Website.

STUD 9/16 X 4.0 use with 1" spacer - requires 3 for one side - Spacer number: PM0010

http://www.partsmike.com/store/store.php?crn=219&rn=480&action=show_detail


Your life is worth buying quality.

Thanks for the advice, I have been leaning towards the studs for obvious reasons mentioned. I will hunt down a local ARP dealer and see what I can find.
Cheers