Abstract: A bolt-and-nut joint wherein the nut can be quickly relocated to an operative position on the bolt without deteriorating the locking function of the nut. In one aspect of the invention, a nut is provided with an axial slot extending through a wall of the nut. The width of the slot is somewhat smaller than the diameter of the bolt and the nut is produced of an elastic material that allows the nut to be snapped on and off the bolt via the slot at variable positions along the length of the bolt. The nut is tapered near one end for cooperation with a corresponding conical recess in a washer. The taper of the nut and the recess in the washer are chosen so that when the nut is tightened, the tapered part of the nut is wedged into the recess, urging the side walls of the nut to tighten around the bolt.