How come they don't use washers on car bolts?

[MikeB]

If you have a good hardware store or industrial supply store in your area, they will definitely have Grade 8 bolts, and sometimes flange bolts and nuts like this:


We are fortunate to have a local industrial supply store that sells just about any bolt you can imagine, including, for example, 3/8" bolts in 1/4" length increments, unlike hardware stores that only have 3", 3-1/2", 4", etc. Between that store and our locally-owned Elliot Hardware store, we can get just about any bolt, nut, and washer imaginable.

Another cool store is http://www.aircraftspruce.com/menus/ha/index.html. They sell stainless and steel -AN washers by the box. These washers have a smaller OD for use in tight spaces, and for a cleaner look.