• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 1 12-point ARP Bolt

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 2 12-point ARP Bolts

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 1 12-point ARP Bolt
• 1 beauty washers

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 4 12-point ARP bolts

For applications without a frame, you can run our Beauty Washers.

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

Be sure to follow us on YouTube.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 8 12-point ARP Bolts w/necessary locknuts and washers

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• (09-23) 2 12-point ARP Bolts for left side swingarm mount
• (99-08) 4 12-point ARP Bolts

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless and black
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 6 12-point ARP Bolts

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12-Point ARP bolts in stainless
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

Includes:

• 4 12-point ARP Bolts

Find more ARP Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.

• Feuling studs and nuts help relieve the stress put on the factory and SE cylinder heads, which have an extremely weak link with the rocker arm shaft standoffs
• Highly recommended if using higher lift camshafts and heavier valve springs
• Keep those cylinder heads from cracking
• Made in the U.S.A.

Find more 12-point hardware for M8 here.

Fitment Guide

Be sure to check out our YouTube channel for tons of install videos, product recs and more.

Upgrading to ARP hardware is one of the best investments you can make for your Harley Davidson motorcycle. Experience the difference in strength, performance, and reliability that comes with high-quality fasteners. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or hitting the racetrack, ARP hardware ensures your ride is safe, strong, and ready for anything. Don’t settle for stock—elevate your ride with ARP!

Factory hardware is weak, strips out constantly, stretches and is just overall low quality. Replace your primary bolts with this high-quality ARP hardware bolt kit. Never have problems again.

• These high-quality bolts will replace your low-grade factory bolts
• 12 Point bolts in black or polished stainless
• Made in the USA
• Manufactured to Imzz Elite exact specifications

**Fits 99-17 Dyna & 07-17 Bagger & Softail Twin Cam

*99-05 Dyna kit includes bolts for outer primary, mid control inspection cover and inner primary to motorcase bolts

Find more ARP bolts Hardware kits for your Harley HERE.

What is a Black Oxide finish?

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add corrosion resistance, for appearance and to minimize light reflection. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup; the blacking process creates a layer only about a micrometre thick.

Why are my new ARP bolts oily?

That oil keeps them from corroding and keeps them looking new! You’re a biker…you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. (If you are, trade your Harley in for  Vespa.) Hot baths of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites (at 286 °F) are used to convert the surface of the material into magnetite (Fe₃O₄).  To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Once the process of dipping is completed the top layer of the fastener is porous and a layer of oil is applied, similar to a pickling process. The oil seeps into the material adding that extra corrosion resistance to rust.

Will they rust?

Black Oxide adds a layer of corrosion and abrasion resistance to fasteners. Like any material, black oxide treated fasteners can rust in the right environments. It will depend on if the fastener is damaged or marred, the type of metal with the black oxide treatment and environmental conditions. In high heat environments, the oil residue that stays on the fasteners will begin to turn brown. Many users find their bolts look like they rust prematurely when really, the oil is just changing colors. See the next Q&A to learn how to bring them back to looking new if they begin to show rust.

Do they require maintenance?

Like any treated, chromed or painted surface, they do require some maintenance. It’s simple and takes only a few minutes! To keep your black oxide hardware looking good and new on your bike, they must be oiled. We recommend spraying WD-40 on a rag and wiping the surface of the hardware whenever you clean your bike. Don’t wait for them to look bad before doing something. A quick swipe with WD-40 every now and then will keep them looking brand new and prevent corrosion. We use Silikroil around the shop which we prefer over WD-40. You can find it on Amazon. In hot, rainy or humid environments, they may require more frequent maintenance.

Upgrade Your Ride: The Benefits of ARP Hardware for Your Harley Davidson Motorcycle

When it comes to enhancing the performance and reliability of your Harley Davidson motorcycle, investing in ARP (Automotive Racing Products) hardware can make a significant difference. Here’s why upgrading to ARP hardware is a smart choice for any serious rider.

1. Superior Strength and Durability

ARP hardware is designed with performance in mind. Made from high-quality materials such as aerospace-grade alloys and stainless steel, ARP bolts and fasteners provide exceptional strength. This means they can withstand the rigors of high-performance riding, preventing failures that often occur with stock hardware.

2. Enhanced Performance

With ARP hardware, you can expect improved performance from your Harley. The precise engineering and superior materials reduce flex and deformation under stress, ensuring that components stay securely in place during extreme conditions. This leads to better throttle response, smoother operation, and an overall enhanced riding experience.

3. Corrosion Resistance

Stock hardware can be susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in harsh weather conditions. ARP fasteners feature advanced coatings that protect against corrosion, ensuring that your motorcycle stays in peak condition. This not only enhances performance but also prolongs the life of your components.

4. Precision Fit

ARP products are engineered for a perfect fit. This precision ensures that every bolt and fastener works seamlessly with your Harley Davidson’s existing components. You won’t have to worry about compatibility issues, and installation is straightforward, allowing you to get back on the road faster.

5. Improved Reliability

When you choose ARP hardware, you’re investing in the reliability of your motorcycle. The increased tensile strength and resistance to stretching mean that you can ride with confidence, knowing that your bike’s critical components are securely fastened. This reliability is crucial for both everyday riding and high-performance situations.

6. Peace of Mind

For many riders, knowing they have the best hardware available contributes to a more enjoyable riding experience. With ARP, you’re not just upgrading your hardware; you’re upgrading your peace of mind. Enjoy every ride knowing you’ve chosen the best for your Harley.

7. Proven Track Record

ARP has a long history of providing top-quality hardware for racing and performance applications. Their products are trusted by professional racers and enthusiasts alike. By choosing ARP for your Harley Davidson, you’re aligning yourself with a brand that is synonymous with quality and performance.

History & Background on ARP

They say that to be successful you must identify a need and satisfy it. Back the early 1970s, racing enthusiast Gary Holzapfel saw that many of his friends’ broken engines were caused by fastener failure.

At the time, there were no commercially available studs and bolts up to the challenge. So Holzapfel called upon his many years of fastener making experience for a leading aerospace subcontractor and founded ARP (Automotive Racing Products).

In the ensuing years, the firm has grown from what was literally a backyard garage workshop into a highly diversified manufacturer with seven operational entities in Southern California with a combined area in excess of 200,000 square feet. These include forging, heat-treating, machining, quality control finishing and packaging/warehousing facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California.

There is even a unique racing-themed restaurant at the main Santa Paula facility – called “ Hozy’s Grill” – which is open to the public.

Today, ARP’s product line contains thousands of part numbers, and has expanded to include virtually every fastener found in an engine and driveline and throughout the suspension and frame. These range from quality high performance OEM replacement parts to exotic specialty hardware for Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR and NHRA drag racing and marine applications.