I could be wrong - but I would have sworn that there is a conical washer that fits into the A-arm where the bolt goes in on my 2wd.  I seem to recall this because I forget about it and the bolt is hard to get out without removing this first. Perhaps only for the cast a-arm?

Todd
'88 Westy

 -------------- Original message ----------------------
From: Old Volks Home <oldvolkshome@GMAIL.COM>
> Rob -
>
> The size(s) depending on if it's 2wd or Syncro could be:
>
> 14mmIDx110mmLx1.5 thread (VW N0401611) - 2wd
> Note:  ETKA 7 does not indicate any washer(s) required.
>
> 14mmIDx80mmLx1.5 thread (VW N0401652) - Syncro
> Note:  ETKA does indicate a flat washer is used with this:
>   15mmIDx28mmODx2.5mm thick (VW N0115343)
>
> In addition, these are usually grade 10.9 strength for the besting that
> shocks and suspension takes.  Bolts from a hardware store are usually grade
> 5 to 8.8 - too soft for this application to hold up.
>
> 14mmID bolts aren't very common, even at a dealership.  If it's 2wd, you
> might be above to salvage from a boneyard, but you don't indicate where your
> remote location in the Northstate you are, so I can't point you in a helpful
> direction.
>
> Check with Walter at Bus Boys, he may be able to help (530) 244-1616.
>
> Hope the above helps anyway.
> --
> Jim Thompson
> 84 GL 1.9 "Gloria"
> 84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
> 73 K Ghia Coupe "Denise"
> 72 411 Station Wagon "Pug"
> oldvolkshome@gmail.com
> http://www.oldvolkshome.com
> ***********************************
> On 9/27/07, Rob Campbell <mantid@gmail.com> wrote:
> >
> > hello--
> >
> > In a remote area of northern california I've broken the bolt which
> > holds the bottom of the shock absorber in place (Drivers side, if that
> > matters).  I have a spare for the rear shocks, but it is not long
> > enough.  Is anyone able to send me the specs for a replacement (I was
> > able to find those for the rear at an ACE hardware store after a
> > little searching, I am hoping the longer front bolt will also be
> > possible to get from a non-VW specific source as well)
> >
> > thanks
> >
> > rob campbell, 87 westy