I am finishing up a bench for a Southbend 9B.
The top is strapped at the ends with bar stock
and bolted through with 1/2" - 13 stock.

The last 36" length of rod has a thread on which
the nut runs "loose." There's too much play and I'm
not in a position to take it back.

Can I improve the grip of the nut by slightly peening
the thread on the 12" - 13 stock - at select places gr?

Comments? Suggestions?

Thanks,
- Carl H.