MBTRAC, Problem with my situation is that the female threads are no doubt gunked up so careful prep of the screws now probably does not make sense. But I hear you on the acetone. When I could not find the locktite primer I used brake parts cleaner spray . Seems to work well.
Also the screws have been reused third time and the captive lock washers look really anemic. I guess I should replace the 10 of them. It's a wonder the whole tractor stays together with the buckboard ride over my rutted acreage and with the 'Harley' engine going "potato , potato, potato.":laughing: