If it’s worth fastening, it’s worth fastening in stainless. From automotive and marine to fabrication, trailers, and general shop work, stainless hardware delivers clean looks and long‑term corrosion resistance. East Coast Bolts stocks a wide range of grades, head styles, and pack sizes so you can grab a single fix or outfit the whole shop. This quick guide explains the grades we carry and how to choose the right pieces—classic‑car restorations included, without taking the spotlight from them.
The stainless steel fasteners Grades We Stock (Plain‑English Guide)
18‑8 (A2 / 304)Our most popular grade for automotive restoration and general use. Great corrosion resistance for under‑hood, interior, and exterior trim. It’s the go‑to for most body, interior, and utility applications.
316 (A4 / “Marine” Stainless)When you’re near salt, moisture, or harsh cleaners—think coastal environments, bilge areas, or winter roads—316 brings superior pitting and chloride resistance. Ideal for marine hardware and vehicles that live at the beach.
410 (Hardenable / Magnetic Stainless) — select itemsOften used for self‑tapping or self‑drilling screws where extra hardness is helpful. 410 is magnetic and offers good wear resistance. We use it selectively where the application calls for it.
Quick note on magnetism: 18‑8 and 316 are typically non‑magnetic in the annealed state but can show slight magnetism after cold‑working (thread rolling). 410 is magnetic.
What We Have in stainless steel fasteners (Categories & Common Sizes)
Screws & Bolts
Socket Cap & Button Head Socket Screws (clean, modern look; great clearance)
Flat Head (countersunk) & Pan/Truss Head machine screws
Hex Head Bolts (SAE coarse/fine and Metric) in common restoration sizes
Sheet‑Metal / Self‑Tapping Screws (select 410 where appropriate)
Set Screws / Grub Screws
Nuts
Hex Nuts (coarse/fine, metric)
Nylon Insert Lock Nuts (Nylocks)
Cap/Acorn Nuts for a finished look
Flange Nuts
Washers
Flat Washers and Fender Washers
Split Lock Washers (we carry popular 18‑8 sizes)
Finishing/Cup Washers for trim
Packs & Assortments
Shop Packs (Qty 20/50/100+) for value
Bulk Cartons for high‑use shops
Universal Stainless Assortments grouped by common sizes and uses
Threads & Sizing: You’ll find both SAE (UNC/UNF) and Metric (e.g., M4–M12). When in doubt, check thread pitch before ordering; classic platforms vary by area of the car and model year.
When to Choose Each Grade of stainless steel fasteners
Choose 18‑8 for most body panels, interiors, brackets, trim, and under‑hood spots where you want reliable, rust‑resistant hardware at a great value.
Choose 316 for coastal builds, marine applications, or anywhere exposed to salt and chlorides (trailers, beach cruisers, salt‑spread regions).
Choose 410 for select self‑tapping/drilling needs where hardness is helpful. (If you’re unsure, ask—happy to point you to the right SKU.)
Tips for Working with Stainless
Use anti‑seize on stainless steel fasteners threads to reduce galling (cold‑welding). A tiny dab goes a long way.
Match lengths carefully on countersunk and trim work; too long can mark panels.
Know your strength needs: 18‑8/316 cover most cosmetic and general‑purpose uses. For high‑load or heat‑critical spots, spec the right alloy steel/grade (we also stock steel Grade 8 and other options).
Shop the Stainless Lineup
Ready to build with stainless?
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Quick FAQ
Is 18‑8 stainless magnetic?Generally no, but it can become slightly magnetic after cold‑working. 316 is similar. 410 is magnetic.
Which stainless should I use near salt water?316. It provides better protection against chlorides and pitting.
Why do stainless nuts sometimes feel like they “grab”?That’s galling. Use anti‑seize, don’t over‑speed with power tools, and avoid dry stainless‑to‑stainless assemblies.
Do you carry both SAE and metric?Yes—common sizes in UNC/UNF and metric. Check pitch before ordering.
Build it once. Build it in stainless.
