MAKE: Blog: Lug nut pill case for gearheads

Lug nut pill case for gearheads

Lug Nut Pill Case Closed
Lug Nut Pill Case Open
Sean writes in with a lug nut pill case for gearheads!

This is a pill case made from a lug nut, a matching threaded bolt, and an o-ring. In the prototype shown, the lug nut is chromed and the bolt is stainless steel. Stainless steel lug nuts are available, however, and those that I manufacture in the future will feature all-stainless construction, which makes the case itself waterproof. The o-ring seal makes it watertight and, when compressed, applies tension against the threads to prevent the bolt vibrating loose. As no stainless steel bolts are available in the required large diameter and short length, a 3/4" bolt has to be cut down to about 3/8" to make the cap. A hacksaw is best for this operation as high-speed cutoff wheels tend to mar the threads. This is the only significant labor involved. After cutting, the thread is cleared by running through a 1/2x20 die, and all parts are cleaned ultrasonically and oven-dried. I'll make one of these and ship it to you for $10.

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Comments

Oldest comments listed first.

Posted by: NotoriousBRK on May 12, 2008 at 3:51 PM

Watch out for galling if you do an all-stainless version.

Posted by: Sean Ragan on May 13, 2008 at 2:18 PM

Thanks for the heads-up about the galling phenomenon. Never knew such a thing was possible with stainless steel. To avoid it, think I'm going to stick to chromed lug nuts with stainless bolts, as pictured.

Posted by: Sean Michael Ragan on May 18, 2008 at 11:48 PM

Updated Version With D-Ring

In response to buyer requests, I've added a version that includes a D-ring mounted through the bolt-head for attachment to a keychain, etc. See the original link for details. Cheers!

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