question on replacing bolts and nuts?

[dondb]

When replacing bolts and nuts with fresh paint, do people put a washer then lock washer? Or do they just replace like originally and let the lock washer dig into the paint? For instance i just primed and painted my frame and replacing trailing arm bushings. The lock washer goes right up against the bracket and will rip the paint and primer when tightened. Seems like that would create a new spot for rust to creep back in. Is there any reason not to put a washer to protect the new paint?? Just wondering what others have to say and contribute.

[mongocanfly]

I just let em dig in and then paint over em...you could use flat washers if you wanted ...wouldnt hurt a thing...

[Macdaddy1]

Where there is enough space i always use a flat washer. Me sense is the factory did not use the flat washers to save money.

[dondb]

OK...Thanks for the reply's...I just wanted to make sure there was no great engineering reason behind the lock washer digging in the paint. I do know it holds the nut in place just wanted to make sure no other reason

[NGN]

But I would think the lock washer has no solid base to dig in and hold as now the washer can spin .

[MP&C]

Flat washer and nylon-insert lock nut. Cleaner looking, less paint chipping, and less prone to loosening.