RAM Vehicle Models Ram Dakota 1987-1996 Torque Specifications
Complete RAM Vehicle Models Ram Dakota 1987-1996 torque specifications guide. Includes factory-specified torque values, torque sequences, and technical specifications for all components including body, brakes, drivetrain, electrical, emissions sensors, fuel, exhaust, HVAC, and suspension. Essential information for proper assembly and maintenance.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
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.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
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.
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.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
Torque Wrench Care
- Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
- Store at lowest setting
- Keep clean and lubricated
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2.2l I4 Engine
Torque specifications for 2.2L-I4 Engine
2.2l I4 Engine
Torque specifications for 2.2L-I4 Engine
Cylinder Head
1 Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5Main Bearings
1 Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5Connecting Rods
1 Connecting Rod Nuts
M14 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Nuts
M14 x 1.5Flywheel
1 Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5Oil Pan
1 Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5Valve Cover
1 Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25Timing Belt/Chain
1 Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5
Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5Camshaft Sprocket
1 Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
M14 x 1.5
Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
M14 x 1.5Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer
1 Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5
Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5Intake Manifold
1 Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5Exhaust Manifold/Headers
1 Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5Spark Plugs
1 Spark Plugs
14mm x 1.25
Spark Plugs
14mm x 1.25Rocker Arms/Shafts
1 Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts
M12 x 1.5Water Pump
1 Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5Thermostat Housing
1 Thermostat Housing Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Thermostat Housing Bolts
M10 x 1.5Engine Block to Transmission Mounting
1 Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5Engine Oil Cooler Lines Fittings
1 Engine Oil Cooler Lines Fittings
M10 x 1.5
Engine Oil Cooler Lines Fittings
M10 x 1.5PCV Valve Mounting
1 PCV Valve Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
PCV Valve Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25Engine Mounting
1 Engine Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Engine Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2.5l I4 Engine
Torque specifications for 2.5L-I4 Engine
2.5l I4 Engine
Torque specifications for 2.5L-I4 Engine
Cylinder Head and Valve Train
1 Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25 3 Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts
M10 x 1.5Engine Block and Bearings
1 Main Bearing Bolts
M14 x 2.0
Main Bearing Bolts
M14 x 2.0 2 Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M12 x 1.75Crankshaft and Connecting Rods
1 Connecting Rod Nuts
M10 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Nuts
M10 x 1.5 2 Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 2.0
Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 2.0Timing and Valve Train
1 Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.75
Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.75 2 Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
M14 x 2.0
Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
M14 x 2.0Intake and Exhaust Manifolds
1 Intake Manifold Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Intake Manifold Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M10 x 1.5Engine Mounts and Accessories
1 Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75 2 Oil Pan Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Oil Pan Bolts
M8 x 1.25Fuel and Ignition Systems
1 Fuel Rail Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Fuel Rail Bolts
M8 x 1.25 2 Ignition Coil Bracket Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Ignition Coil Bracket Bolts
M8 x 1.25Cooling System
1 Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Thermostat Housing Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Thermostat Housing Bolts
M10 x 1.5 3.9l Engine
Torque specifications for 3.9L Engine
3.9l Engine
Torque specifications for 3.9L Engine
Cylinder Head and Engine Block
1 Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Cylinder Head to Engine Block Studs
M14 x 1.5
Cylinder Head to Engine Block Studs
M14 x 1.5Main Bearings and Crankshaft
1 Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5 2 Main Bearing Cap Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Main Bearing Cap Bolts
M14 x 1.5Connecting Rods and Pistons
1 Connecting Rod Nuts
M12 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Nuts
M12 x 1.5 2 Connecting Rod Bearing Cap Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Bearing Cap Bolts
M10 x 1.5Flywheel and Crankshaft Pulley
1 Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5
Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5Oil Pan and Oil Filter
1 Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Oil Filter Housing Bolt
M12 x 1.5
Oil Filter Housing Bolt
M12 x 1.5Valve Train and Timing System
1 Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25 2 Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5
Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5Intake and Exhaust System
1 Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5Cooling System
1 Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Water Pump Pulley Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Water Pump Pulley Bolts
M12 x 1.5Engine Mounts and Transmission
1 Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Engine Block to Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Engine Block to Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5 3.9l V6 Engine
Torque specifications for 3.9L-V6 Engine
3.9l V6 Engine
Torque specifications for 3.9L-V6 Engine
Cylinder Head and Engine Block
1 Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Cylinder Head Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Cylinder Head to Engine Block Studs
M14 x 1.5
Cylinder Head to Engine Block Studs
M14 x 1.5Main Bearings and Crankshaft
1 Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Main Bearing Bolts
M16 x 1.5 2 Main Bearing Cap Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Main Bearing Cap Bolts
M14 x 1.5Connecting Rods and Pistons
1 Connecting Rod Nuts
M12 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Nuts
M12 x 1.5 2 Connecting Rod Bearing Cap Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Connecting Rod Bearing Cap Bolts
M10 x 1.5Flywheel and Crankshaft Pulley
1 Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Flywheel Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5
Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5Oil Pan and Oil Filter
1 Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Oil Filter Housing Bolt
M12 x 1.5
Oil Filter Housing Bolt
M12 x 1.5Valve Train and Timing System
1 Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Valve Cover Bolts
M8 x 1.25 2 Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5
Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt
M12 x 1.5Intake and Exhaust System
1 Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5Cooling System
1 Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Water Pump Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Water Pump Pulley Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Water Pump Pulley Bolts
M12 x 1.5Engine Mounts and Transmission
1 Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Engine Block to Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Engine Block to Engine Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5 A500 Transmission
Torque specifications for A500 Transmission
A500 Transmission
Torque specifications for A500 Transmission
Transmission Mounting
1 Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Transmission Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5Transmission Oil System
1 Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.25 2 Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs
M12 x 1.5
Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs
M12 x 1.5Transmission Case and Bellhousing
1 Transmission Case Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Transmission Case Bolts
M16 x 1.5 2 Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M14 x 1.5Transmission Crossmember and Torque Converter
1 Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M18 x 1.5
Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M18 x 1.5 2 Torque Converter Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Torque Converter Bolts
M14 x 1.5 Body
Torque specifications for Body
Body
Torque specifications for Body
Suspension System
1 Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.25
Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.25 2 Control Arm Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Control Arm Bolts
M16 x 1.5Steering System
1 Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.25Brake System
1 Brake Caliper Bolts
M10 x 1.0
Brake Caliper Bolts
M10 x 1.0 2 Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts
M14 x 1.25
Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts
M14 x 1.25Body and Frame
1 Body Mount Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Body Mount Bolts
M16 x 1.5 2 Door Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0
Door Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0 3 Hood Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0
Hood Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0 4 Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0
Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.0 Brakes
Torque specifications for Brakes
Brakes
Torque specifications for Brakes
Brake Caliper and Mounting
1 Brake Caliper Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Brake Caliper Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts
M14 x 1.5Brake Disc/Drum and Hub
1 Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts
M12 x 1.5Brake Master Cylinder and Booster
1 Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Brake Booster Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Brake Booster Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5Brake Lines and Fittings
1 Brake Line Fittings
M8 x 1.25
Brake Line Fittings
M8 x 1.25Parking Brake and Wheel
1 Parking Brake Cable Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Parking Brake Cable Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25 2 Wheel Lug Nuts
M14 x 1.5
Wheel Lug Nuts
M14 x 1.5 Drivetrain
Torque specifications for Drivetrain
Drivetrain
Torque specifications for Drivetrain
Engine Block and Crankshaft
1 Main Bearing Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Main Bearing Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Connecting Rod Nuts
M10 x 1.25
Connecting Rod Nuts
M10 x 1.25Flywheel and Crankshaft Pulley
1 Flywheel Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Flywheel Bolts
M12 x 1.25 2 Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5
Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt
M16 x 1.5Transmission and Transfer Case
1 Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25 2 Transfer Case Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Transfer Case Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5Transmission Oil Pan and Differential Cover
1 Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M10 x 1.25 2 Differential Cover Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Differential Cover Bolts
M12 x 1.25Drive Axle and Half Shaft
1 Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts
M14 x 1.5CV Joint and Axle Nut
1 CV Joint/Axle Nut
M18 x 1.5
CV Joint/Axle Nut
M18 x 1.5Propeller/Drive Shaft
1 Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts
M16 x 1.5Differential Drain/Fill Plug
1 Differential Drain/Fill Plug
M12 x 1.25
Differential Drain/Fill Plug
M12 x 1.25Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing
1 Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing Bolts
M14 x 1.5Transmission Crossmember
1 Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M16 x 1.5Axle Shaft Retaining Bolts
1 Axle Shaft Retaining Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Axle Shaft Retaining Bolts
M14 x 1.5 Electrical
Torque specifications for Electrical
Electrical
Torque specifications for Electrical
Ignition System
1 Ignition Coil Bolt
M8 x 1.25
Ignition Coil Bolt
M8 x 1.25 2 Spark Plug Wire Boot Clamp Bolt
M6 x 1
Spark Plug Wire Boot Clamp Bolt
M6 x 1 3 Distributor Cap Bolt
M10 x 1.5
Distributor Cap Bolt
M10 x 1.5Battery and Charging System
1 Battery Terminal Nuts
M12 x 1.75
Battery Terminal Nuts
M12 x 1.75 2 Alternator Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2
Alternator Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2 3 Alternator Electrical Connector Bolt
M8 x 1.25
Alternator Electrical Connector Bolt
M8 x 1.25Starter Motor System
1 Starter Motor Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2
Starter Motor Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2 2 Fuel Pump Electrical Connector Bolt
M6 x 1
Fuel Pump Electrical Connector Bolt
M6 x 1 Emissions Sensors
Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors
Emissions Sensors
Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors
Egr System
1 EGR Valve Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
EGR Valve Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25Oxygen Sensors
1 Oxygen Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Oxygen Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0Catalytic Converter
1 Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M10 x 1.5Air Fuel Sensors
1 Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0Mass Airflow Sensor
1 Mass Airflow Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Mass Airflow Sensor Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0 Exhaust
Torque specifications for Exhaust
Exhaust
Torque specifications for Exhaust
Exhaust Manifold
1 Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Engine Block Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Engine Block Bolts
M12 x 1.5 2 Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Cylinder Head Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Cylinder Head Bolts
M10 x 1.25Exhaust Pipe
1 Exhaust Pipe to Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust Pipe to Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts
M12 x 1.5Catalytic Converter
1 Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M14 x 1.75
Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M14 x 1.75Muffler
1 Muffler to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M14 x 1.75
Muffler to Exhaust Pipe Bolts
M14 x 1.75Oxygen Sensor
1 Oxygen Sensor Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Oxygen Sensor Bolts
M8 x 1.25Exhaust System Mounting
1 Exhaust System Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Exhaust System Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5Heat Shield
1 Heat Shield Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Heat Shield Bolts
M8 x 1.25 Fuel
Torque specifications for Fuel
Fuel
Torque specifications for Fuel
Intake Manifold
1 Throttle Body Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Throttle Body Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Intake Manifold Bolts
M12 x 1.75Fuel Rail and Injectors
1 Fuel Rail Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Fuel Rail Bolts
M8 x 1.25 2 Fuel Injector Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Fuel Injector Bolts
M8 x 1.25Fuel Pump and Filter
1 Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2.0
Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts
M14 x 2.0 2 Fuel Filter Bolt/Nut
M12 x 1.75
Fuel Filter Bolt/Nut
M12 x 1.75Fuel Tank and Filler Neck
1 Fuel Tank Strap Bolts
M14 x 2.0
Fuel Tank Strap Bolts
M14 x 2.0 2 Fuel Filler Neck Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Fuel Filler Neck Bolts
M10 x 1.5Additional Components
1 Fuel Pressure Regulator Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Fuel Pressure Regulator Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5 2 Fuel Injector O-Ring Seals
N/A
Fuel Injector O-Ring Seals
N/A 3 Fuel Pump Electrical Connector Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Fuel Pump Electrical Connector Bolts
M6 x 1.0 Hvac
Torque specifications for Hvac
Hvac
Torque specifications for Hvac
A/C Compressor
1 A/C Compressor Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
A/C Compressor Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5A/C Lines and Fittings
1 A/C Line Fittings
M8 x 1.25
A/C Line Fittings
M8 x 1.25 2 A/C Orifice Tube Fittings
M6 x 1.0
A/C Orifice Tube Fittings
M6 x 1.0A/C Condenser and Receiver Drier
1 A/C Condenser Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75
A/C Condenser Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75 2 A/C Receiver-Drier Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
A/C Receiver-Drier Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5A/C Evaporator
1 A/C Evaporator Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
A/C Evaporator Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25 Suspension
Torque specifications for Suspension
Suspension
Torque specifications for Suspension
Front Suspension
1 Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5 2 Control Arm Bolts
M16 x 1.5
Control Arm Bolts
M16 x 1.5 3 Upper Control Arm Bushing Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Upper Control Arm Bushing Bolts
M12 x 1.25 4 Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolts
M14 x 1.5Steering System
1 Steering Knuckle Bolts
M18 x 1.5
Steering Knuckle Bolts
M18 x 1.5 2 Ball Joint Nut
M20 x 1.5
Ball Joint Nut
M20 x 1.5 3 Tie Rod End Nut
M16 x 1.5
Tie Rod End Nut
M16 x 1.5Sway Bar System
1 Sway Bar Link Nut
M14 x 1.5
Sway Bar Link Nut
M14 x 1.5 2 Coil Spring Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Coil Spring Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
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
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
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
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
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
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 proper torque for the cylinder head bolts on a 1987-1996 Ram Dakota?
What IS the proper torque for the cylinder head bolts on a 1987-1996 Ram Dakota?
70 ft-lbs (95 Nm) in three stages: 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm), 45 ft-lbs (61 Nm), and 70 ft-lbs (95 Nm)
Q2 What IS the recommended torque for the lug nuts on a Ram Dakota?
What IS the recommended torque for the lug nuts on a Ram Dakota?
95 ft-lbs (129 Nm) in a star pattern, beginning with the nut closest to the valve stem
Q3 What IS the correct torque for the intake manifold bolts on a 1996 Ram Dakota?
What IS the correct torque for the intake manifold bolts on a 1996 Ram Dakota?
22 ft-lbs (30 Nm) in a sequence starting from the center and working outwards
Q4 What type of torque wrench should be used for tightening critical bolts on the Ram Dakota?
What type of torque wrench should be used for tightening critical bolts on the Ram Dakota?
A high-quality, click-type torque wrench with a range that covers the required torque values (e.g., 0-150 ft-lbs)
Q5 How often should the torque on critical bolts be checked on a Ram Dakota?
How often should the torque on critical bolts be checked on a Ram Dakota?
At every major service interval or as per the manufacturer's recommendations
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
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
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
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 10-100 Nm
Essential for tightening fasteners to precise torque specifications, preventing damage and ensuring proper assembly of components on the dakota.
- Accurate readings in desired torque range
- Audible or tactile feedback upon reaching target torque
- Meets or exceeds industry standards for accuracy
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Service Procedures
Bolt Tightening Procedures for 1987-1996 Ram Dakota
Covers proper techniques, torque values, and safety precautions for tightening bolts on the Dakota.
- Clean and inspect bolt and threads before tightening.
- Apply a thin layer of thread locker (if specified).
- Tighten the bolt to the specified torque value using a calibrated torque wrench.
- Follow the proper tightening sequence for critical components.
- Double-check torque values to ensure accuracy.
- Safety precautions: Wear proper safety gear, use the correct size wrench, avoid overtightening.
Technical Service Bulletins
Updated Bolt Torque Specifications for 1987-1996 Ram Dakota
2005-03-15Provides revised torque specifications for several critical components on the Dakota, superseding previous information.
Resolution: Refer to the updated torque specifications in the bulletin for accurate tightening values.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.
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