RAM Ram 4500 2016-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
RAM Ram 4500 2016-present

RAM Ram 4500 2016-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed brake bolt torque specifications for the 2016-Present Ram 4500, including front and rear brake caliper bolts, brake rotor bolts, and wheel hub bolts.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Brake caliper and mounting

This subsystem includes the brake caliper, mounting bracket, and related components that secure the caliper to the rotor or drum.

1

Brake Caliper Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
125 ft-lbs (170 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the brake caliper to the rotor or drum.
2

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
160 ft-lbs (217 N·m)
Important Notes
Attach the brake caliper mounting bracket to the steering knuckle or suspension component.

Brake rotor and drum

This subsystem includes the brake rotor, drum, and related components that secure the rotor or drum to the hub.

1

Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (135 N·m)
Important Notes
Hold the brake disc or drum in place.
2

Brake Rotor Bolts (if applicable)

M12 x 1.25
Important Notes
Secure the brake rotor to the hub. Estimated torque value range.

Brake master cylinder and abs module

This subsystem includes the brake master cylinder, ABS module, and related components that secure the master cylinder and ABS module to the brake system.

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Important Notes
Attach the brake master cylinder to the brake booster or firewall. Estimated torque value range.
2

ABS Module Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Important Notes
Secure the ABS module to the brake system. Estimated torque value range.

Wheel and hub

This subsystem includes the wheel, hub, and related components that secure the wheel to the hub.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
130 ft-lbs (176 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the wheel to the hub.

Brake lines and fittings

This subsystem includes the brake lines, fittings, and related components that connect the brake lines to the brake calipers, master cylinder, or ABS module.

1

Brake Line Fittings

M10 x 1.25
Important Notes
Connect the brake lines to the brake calipers, master cylinder, or ABS module. Estimated torque value range.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the recommended torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on my 2016-Present Ram 4500?

The recommended torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on your 2016-Present Ram 4500 is 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm) for the front calipers and 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm) for the rear calipers. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended torque specification to ensure proper brake function and safety.

Q2

How often should I inspect and maintain my brake system?

It's recommended to inspect your brake system every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner's manual. Regular maintenance includes checking brake pad wear, rotor condition, and brake fluid levels. Neglecting brake maintenance can lead to reduced stopping power, increased risk of accidents, and costly repairs.

Q3

Can I use a impact wrench to tighten my brake caliper bolts?

No, it's not recommended to use an impact wrench to tighten your brake caliper bolts. Impact wrenches can apply too much torque, which can damage the brake caliper or surrounding components. Instead, use a torque wrench to ensure accurate and controlled torque application.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench

A precision torque wrench for accurate torque application

  • Range: 0-150 ft-lbs
  • Accuracy: ± 2%
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets for various brake component sizes

  • Sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm
  • Material: Chrome Vanadium
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long, flexible bar for applying extra torque

  • Length: 24 inches
  • Material: Steel
Learn more
Service Procedures

Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for tightening brake caliper bolts to the correct torque specification

  • Loosen the caliper bolts with a breaker bar and socket
  • Tighten the caliper bolts in a star pattern to 30 ft-lbs
  • Tighten the caliper bolts an additional 1/4 turn to 40 ft-lbs
View full procedure

Brake Rotor Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for tightening brake rotor bolts to the correct torque specification

  • Loosen the rotor bolts with a breaker bar and socket
  • Tighten the rotor bolts in a star pattern to 20 ft-lbs
  • Tighten the rotor bolts an additional 1/4 turn to 30 ft-lbs
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Specification Update

2018-02-15

Update to the brake caliper bolt torque specification for 2016-Present Ram 4500 models

2016-2018 Ram 4500

Resolution: Tighten brake caliper bolts to 40 ft-lbs, instead of 30 ft-lbs

Brake Rotor Warpage Issue

2019-05-01

Issue with brake rotor warpage on 2016-Present Ram 4500 models

2016-2019 Ram 4500

Resolution: Replace brake rotors with updated design, and tighten rotor bolts to 30 ft-lbs

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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