What are Eye Bolts?
Eye bolts are male-threaded rings that create a rated lifting point in a tapped hole or through-bolt setup. Ours are USA made by Ken Forging and drop forged for strength and repeatable performance.
Shoulder eye bolt vs plain eye bolt
- Plain pattern: For straight vertical lifts only.
- Shoulder pattern: Machined shoulder allows limited angular loading when aligned and derated correctly.
How to select the right Eye Bolt
- Working Load Limit: Choose capacity for the heaviest lift, then apply any angle factors.
- Thread size and length: Match the hole and ensure full engagement. Through-bolt with nut and washer if the base is thin.
- Finish: Zinc plated or hot-dip galvanized for corrosion protection, 316/18-8 stainless for marine or washdown.
Installation and alignment
- Seat the shoulder flush on a clean, flat surface.
- Align the eye with the direction of pull; use pairs for two-leg slings.
- For rotating or frequent angle picks, use a swivel hoist ring.
FAQs about Eye Bolts
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How much thread engagement do I need?
Aim for at least one bolt diameter of fully engaged threads in steel, more in softer materials. Shoulders must seat flush.
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Can I side-load a plain eye bolt?
No. Use a properly oriented shoulder eye bolt with derating, or move to a swivel hoist ring for off-axis pulls.
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Which finish should I choose?
Use zinc plated or hot-dip galvanized for general outdoor exposure, and 316 stainless for harsh or marine environments.
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What shackle size works with my eye?
The shackle pin should fit freely in the eye. Never force a larger pin through a small eye.