Abstract: A method facilitates assembling a gas turbine engine assembly including at least a first member and a second member. The method comprises inserting a threaded fastener through an opening formed in a flange, and providing at least one shank nut including a flanged mating end, an opposite non-mating end, and a body extending therebetween. The body includes an internal surface, an external surface, and a centerline extending between the body ends. The flanged mating end includes a substantially planar exterior surface that is aligned perpendicularly to the centerline and an annular groove that extends from the exterior surface at least partially towards the non-mating end. The method also comprises securing the assembly together such that the mating end is positioned flush against the flange and such that the threaded fastener extends at least partially into a bore extending through the shank nut and defined by the shank nut internal surface.