[Fred T]

I don't know just what you're looking at on ebay. I'm assuming stainless steel fasteners. My experience has led me not to use any ss fasteners from the Asian market. You're dealing with unknown material compositons and heat treat, which leads to failure. Some of the vendors on this board sell only high quality, made in the US fasteners. Yes, you pay a bit more, but it's not a place to scrimp. You will also find that the hardware store bolt prices will kill your budget.

For links go to the top of this forum and look in the help those who support us threads.

Also, for buying bolts locally, if there are any farm stores in your area check them out. Usually they sell alloy steel bolts by the pound, the price usually runs about 2/3 of what you pay at the hardware store.