Dodge Avenger 1995-2000 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Dodge Avenger 1995-2000

Dodge Avenger 1995-2000 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed drivetrain bolt torque specifications for the 1995-2000 Dodge Avenger, including transmission, driveshaft, and axle 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

Engine mounting and accessories

Components that secure the engine and its accessories to the vehicle chassis.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the flywheel to the crankshaft.

Crankshaft and connecting rods

Components that support the crankshaft and connecting rods.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
42 ft-lbs (57 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to seat the bearings properly.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
24 ft-lbs (33 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the connecting rods.

Transmission and mounting

Components that secure the transmission to the engine and chassis.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the transmission to the engine and chassis.
2

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the oil pan to the transmission.

Driveshaft and axles

Components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
57 ft-lbs (77 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the drive axle to the transmission and differential.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
180 ft-lbs (244 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the CV joint to the drive axle.
3

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the propeller shaft to the transmission and differential.

Differential and transfer case

Components that distribute power to the wheels.

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the differential drain/fill plug.
2

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper torque to secure the transfer case drain/fill plug.

Sensors and accessories

Components that monitor and support the drivetrain system.

1

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Ensure proper torque to secure the crankshaft position sensor.
2

Camshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Ensure proper torque to secure the camshaft position sensor.

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 drivetrain bolts on my 1995-2000 Dodge Avenger?

The recommended torque specification for the drivetrain bolts on your 1995-2000 Dodge Avenger can be found in the repair manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, as a general guideline, the torque specs for the drivetrain bolts are as follows: transmission mounts (30-40 ft-lbs), driveshaft bolts (40-50 ft-lbs), and axle nuts (60-70 ft-lbs). It's essential to consult the repair manual or manufacturer's website for specific torque specs, as over-torquing or under-torquing can cause damage to the drivetrain components.

Q2

How often should I check the drivetrain bolt torque specifications on my 1995-2000 Dodge Avenger?

It's recommended to check the drivetrain bolt torque specifications every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or during routine maintenance, such as oil changes or tire rotations. This ensures that the bolts are tightened to the correct specification, preventing damage to the drivetrain components and maintaining optimal performance.

Q3

What happens if I over-torque or under-torque the drivetrain bolts on my 1995-2000 Dodge Avenger?

Over-torquing or under-torquing the drivetrain bolts can cause damage to the drivetrain components, leading to premature wear, vibration, and potentially catastrophic failure. Over-torquing can strip the threads or damage the bolt, while under-torquing can cause the bolt to loosen over time, leading to noise, vibration, and decreased performance.

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 tool for applying specific torque values to drivetrain bolts

  • 0-150 ft-lb range
  • 1/2" drive
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets for various drivetrain bolt sizes

  • 1/2" drive
  • Metric and SAE sizes
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long, flexible bar for applying extra torque to stubborn bolts

  • 1/2" drive
  • 24" length
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification

A step-by-step guide to applying the correct torque values to drivetrain bolts

  • Locate the drivetrain bolt to be torqued
  • Choose the correct socket size and attach to torque wrench
  • Apply the recommended torque value (see specifications below)
  • Verify torque value with a second reading
View full procedure

Drivetrain Bolt Replacement

A step-by-step guide to replacing drivetrain bolts

  • Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
  • Remove the old bolt and discard
  • Install the new bolt and apply the recommended torque value
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification Update

1998-02-15

An update to the recommended torque values for drivetrain bolts

1995-2000 Dodge Avenger

Resolution: Apply the updated torque values to ensure proper drivetrain function

Drivetrain Bolt Failure

1996-08-20

A bulletin regarding drivetrain bolt failure due to improper torque application

1995-1997 Dodge Avenger

Resolution: Inspect and replace drivetrain bolts as necessary, and apply the recommended torque values

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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