To answer your question about the washers, I used
thick washers on both sides. But I'll have to remove them all in order to
replace the AN-6A bolts with AN173-6A's. I'm hoping the bolts arrive by
this weekend so I can start putting everything back together.
Normally washers are needed only under
the side that you’re turning to apply the force; unless needed to provide
shimming or a more uniform or larger surface. The -6A length has a 3/8”
grip length, and I assumed the plate was 1/8” and the flange ¼”.
If the thickness is less I may have to get some more, or thicker, washers.
Al