Abstract: A method for cold forming a flattened, end-threaded rod into a U-bolt answers the need for high-strength steel rods that can be bent into flattened U-bolts by spring and suspension repair facilities or the like. By controlling the amount of work put into the end-threaded flattened rod during bending, it is possible to manufacture a flattened, end-threaded rod from a high-strength steel that can be successfully cold bent into a U-bolt. The amount or degree of flattening and the radius of the U-bolt are variables which applicant controls to successfully cold bend a high-strength steel flattened rod into a U-bolt. Therefore, the spring and suspension repair facility avoids the need to heat the flattened rods for warm forming and, instead, can maintain an inventory of end-threaded and flattened rods for cold forming into flattened U-bolt comply with OEM designs when modifying or repairing vehicles.

Abstract: A bolt and restraining clip assembly are formed by providing a raised square portion on the head of the bolt on the side of the head away from the threaded end of the bolt. A clip with a mating square hole is mounted on the raised square portion, and an additional central protrusion extending outwardly from the raised square portion is impacted, for example in a punch press, to form a boss extending outwardly over the hole in the clip to firmly secure the clip to the bolt.