Seatpost clamp bolt replacement I rounded the flats on the seatpost clamp bolt (it's an Allen bolt; i.e. I turn it with a Allen key) that came with my bike (2014 Fuji Absolute). I found a replacement for the bolt at a local hardware store, but it's a Philips screw, not a bolt. It's the same size and fits the clamp perfectly. 

Is it safe to install? Is there any chance of damaging the bike?

My primary concerns are due to not really understand what torque has to do with seatpost clamps, and other bike repair forums insisting you use a torque wrench lest you damage things. But I think that might apply more carbon fiber bodies.

Philips Screw


Allen Bolt
As long it secures the seatpost I don't see how a screw instead of bolt can damage the bike. If it fails, the worst case would be a seat sliding down. You might find it inconvient if screw has head that requires tools not usually used for bicycles, like phillips screwdriver or a hex head.

New seatpost collars are cheap, so you can buy a replacement to feel subjectively safer.